1000 Gifts

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I began this Gratitude Journal in early September 2009. When I began, I was shooting for 1,000, in no particularly hurry. Just trying to stay observant and appreciative. Not sure how long a list WordPress will allow, but here goes….

Autumn mums
Great neighbors who surprised us at various times this summer by mowing, bringing our trash containers back up to the house and sharing overflow from their gardens in a year that we chose not to plant things that would need much tending
Late blooming hydrangea, reminding me not to count out ideas and people because of the calendar
Blogs that start my day off well. Bloggers who put good things out there in cyberspace.
Freddy and Ginny’s porch swing, a magnet for the neighborhood. “You come back real soon now!” Ginny calls after me every time I leave.
NPR slideshow on ways to say “Hi!” in an H1N1 world. http://www.npr.org/news/graphics/2009/may/gimmefive
A rare completely free day 9/17/09. I wrote the whole day – great!!
a reason to get out my muffin tins – a new writer friend is coming over to visit
my toys came out to play for the first time in a long time because of her little boy – love that!
Freddie and Ginny’s story of 1940’s segregation in this area – sad but important story to share – I feel honored
tailgating, memories of past and hope of near future
phone call from Barb S., asking how we were doing
fun day at Harvest Moon Festival
dreaming together
Mastewal
John Malone’s message about needing to make the trip to Samaria
fun, spontaneous call to my sister-in-law to hear how their recent getaway to Cape May went
nice conversation with Gram & Pop about their new garage floor and other projects – easy conversation
Dr. Byrd
Dr Byrd’s words “won’t be needing treatment for a long time”
girls in pigtails
pumpkin carving dreams and my first pumpkin coming in the house
neighbors gathering on my patio
plans for a neighborhood potluck picnic
the boundary lines for me falling in pleasant places
bike path keeps getting longer
fresh insights while reading in the morning dark
¿A quién enviaré?…¡Envíame a mí! Excellent words.
playing Candlyland with yet another child
baking cookies with a 3-yr-old
Grandpa and T riding bikes together
a turtle shows up
staying up late, reading a book and watching a movie with a grandson who refuses to fall asleep
decades-old Candyland game, pieces missing, still being enjoyed
good in-laws for my kids
early morning reading and prayer
a prayer request that arrives via texting
thought-provoking book “Love has a Face”
DQ twist cones
kids riding bikes “Look at me!”
everything bagels
double stroller
sleeping well away from home
oatmeal
a stash of strawberries in the freezer
people to care about
words, as needed
silence
walking home from school, yesterday and many years ago
school buses, lined up, waiting to go somewhere
band practice off in the distance
excellent StoryCorps about the difference a book cover made (gets me thinking about appearances – they shouldn’t be the main goal of life, but they can play an important part)
smell of clean laundry
excellent, successful neighborhood picnic
how nice several of the young people at church are turning out
a chance to talk with a neighbor who is writing
the opp to catch up with a friend
happy children, coloring and laughing
blogging FUN
puppy day at The Pines
morning prayer time in the dark with my little light
my Spanish Bible
how the H.S. brings people to mind
fish in the freezer, salad already made
candy corn and the friends it reminds me of
apples
the opp to use the apples to bless others
Millie’s laugh and example
nice long phone chat with one of my children
burning bushes all turning color
a grey, sprinkly evening with soccer under the lights
my funeral luncheon prayer fulfilled – loads of people, none left hungry
joint effort with ladies from another church
tomato soup with fresh basil on top
good conversation
time to process good conversation
pies to make
kitchen to clean up
a river to sit by
the Lock through which boats pass and the endless fascination on a sunny Fall Sunday afternoon
the brilliant orange of pumpkins
spontaneous meet-ups
spontaneous conversation that plants seeds
more writing ideas than time to write
that “connecting” moment in the sermon when something hits me beyond the fact intake
a hug from a child
one coffee, well-placed in my day
the answer to a prayer for a soft treat for Ma when I am out of ideas
a bounty of parsley, enough dried and frozen for at least the next year
freezer full from this year’s garden
a conversation with Brisa
Brisa listing me in her address book as “Señora Inglés” – my new identity? I’m happy to wear it.
his blue teal shirt
his green check shirt
his coral pullover
him
his words “This year I realized how perfectly suited to each other we are” – you know it!
laughter
music to cook by
music to fall asleep by
music to clean by
music that inspires deep thoughts
my new fun socks
learning a blog post rings true for someone else
pizza first time in a long time
phone conversations with ALL THREE kids in one week
the word “nevertheless” at the start of Isaiah 9
peace is in infinite supply Isa. 9
kids, giggling and running in the autumn air
answered prayers
seeing things work out w/o my needing to say anything
jack o’ lanterns
a blog post I almost didn’t use garnered quite a few comments – I’m glad it connected
movie in the house to look forward to on a rainy, chilly weekend
the garden cleared out and winter-ready
walks in the chilly air
books I look forward to reading – it’s like money in the bank
Chris’ enthusiasm at the sight of Christmas trees at Lowe’s in October – I didn’t mean for my pic to lead to despair for people
Eyob coming home with Dan and Brianna today (10/16)
that a soft answer turns away wrath – May God continue supplying the soft answers (not necessarily answers that skirt the issue, but whatever needs to be conveyed, it is not like a hammer on people’s heads)
seeing the people I love surrounded by lots of others who care about them
that I got around to organizing my linen closet
complementary colors of autumn
smell of acorn squash, baking
sun, when rain was expected
rain, quieting everything,making me turn on soft lights
sounds of football and soccer being played not far from here
asters on my walk
trees of infinite color combinations
making plans for guests
baseball championship games in October
pine cones
Researchers – often invisible to us, but so important National Medical Researchers Day (10/21/2009)
Belinda’s Shepherd’s Pie
Dana Jenning’s current blog entry on nesting instinct (possible explains my recent linen closet activity and also maybe why I have never liked fireworks – a lifelong need to eliminate excess noise?)
swings
morning fog
acting on a nudge, it turning out to be the right thing for all involved
perseverance
contentment, in large doses
the most fantastic autumn colors in memory – beauty!
new wildlife refuge close by
leaf collection
smell of pumpkin baking
promise of bulbs planted
soup on breezy days
Mike Miller’s pictures from Africa, like a trip there
breakfast meetings
circles of leaves under trees
Panera business meetings
travel plans for Atlanta
a text msg, “looking forward to coming”
some kid therapy coming up @ a birthday party
my honeybun
compassionate words when needed, unplanned, unexpected
choices I often forget to appreciate, that I have so many
being OUT of treatment, like an injection of massive quantities of time back into the week…often to do stuff that used to seem like a chore, but now seems like vacation
the new perspective above
the question marks of life
coffee
a long walk without a sore knee
a parade of headlights going out Chamberlain in the morning dark, off into the world
the chill breeze, reminding me of Paula Callery’s reflection on leaving IBM, not knowing what she’d do next, “It can be good to get out there and feel the cold wind in your face.” I should blog about that, embracing the question marks. (Did, here.)
the sight of the monkey cupcakes
games of Candyland with young friends
kid therapy
the sight of Heather’s monkey cupcakes
that 15 secs after I texted a friend that I needed advice, she called – I had not said it was urgent
helpful tips from a friend
the fun of seeing people costumed
bowl of candy ready
Enrique telling of Halloween customs in Mexico
some very polite trick-or-treaters at my door
a good (and true) romance story told to me
RiverTrail – longer walk without a sore knee
‘hearing’ and ‘seeing’ more input on topics that have been prayed about
the sibling leaves
Chip’s direction on personal stories – confirming
enthusiasm for some routine tasks
discovering I’m really understanding a lot on the Spanish language podcasts
Joel got to go to Honduras
unexpected editing job I enjoyed
a camouflage painted treehouse
beauty of winter-ready trees
forts in living rooms
a friend-recommended recipe, tried!
discovering a pair of shoes I’d forgotten about
T: “Grammie, you are at my house!”
movie “The Answer Man,” lots of thought-provokers there
special dinner, lingering afterwards and chatting
hopscotch
my closet cleaner outer
touring a grown child’s workplace
walks through parks with statues that makes me think
good street signs in a strange city
neighborhoods, what makes a good one
Peace Monument in Atlanta
Deidra’s “baggage claim” post about negative self-talk:
Dad’s closet cleanout impulse late one evening at Suz’ place
sunrise over the Blue Ridge
Google’s Sesame Street logo
a shy child, playing happily with others
the mailman
fresh vision for kitchen cabinets
homemade soup on a grey day
fresh baked biscuits
blooming Christmas cactus
finger puppets
role models
hearing a call, wondering where it’s leading
extra patience showed up just when I needed it
some unexpected boldness
happy picture hanging
the drained feeling that comes from expending energy in the places given
distance overcome, great-grandparents meeting great-grandson for first time
a bit of intrigue with a likely happy outcome
construction paper chains
rhythm instruments for little hands
lights on in houses when the night falls early
a neighbor’s help, plus his taking my leftover Milkbones
a good book to make a long wait fly by
awakened by Spanish words in my head
praying at the field
discovery that knee less bothersome in the morning
full sanctuary
great songs
even the college kids singing
friends
that when I’m so tired I could cry….I do
old songs on the iPod
capturing a vision when I thought ‘no way’
yarn in my favorite color for an earband
family reunion planning for 2010
barefoot days at home
horsey swing
fishermen in boats on a Sunday afternoon
that even though I’m not studying through Fuller at the moment, I’m still getting a lot out of all the good stuff they make available via podcasts
an encounter with my yarn stash
a place to put my bits and pieces of craft materials
an important prayer request to wrestle through, makes me feel included in the lives of others
an excellent Christmas playlist, including various renditions of “Silent Night” and a new fave, the slightly haunting “In the Bleak Midwinter”
a warm and friendly visit to someone, with some good laughs
Great-grandparents meeting a child for the first time
electric candles in the windows again
book shelves gone through
thanksgiving menu already made out for me in the back of my favorite cookbook
that the blogosphere (at least my Google Reader) seems to go quieter on the weekends, esp. Sundays – I like to thnk of my favorite bloggers having a sabbath rest
catching him again as the pied piper of kids
little girl so pleased with her birthday
another great immigrant story from a new Ethiopian acquaintance
finding an extra 8 sq. feet in playroom by consolidating
parsley STILL holding forth in the garden in late November
small knitting project to be excited about after not knitting for a long time (earband)
smell of bacon
quiet
sun pouring into car on a chilly day day while I wait outside a store
yorkie in adjacent vehicle watching for owners to return,alert to every sound – I love that I’ve gotten to know yorkies
a heartfelt email from a friend suffering
“bitter or better” blog post at inCourage
the way ‘Multitude Mondays’ are changing the flavor of the Monday blogosphere
smell of cornbread
boiling the cranberry-orange sauce, whole house smells like a candle
in anticipation of little boys coming, my teddy bears come out of hiding
Erin’s new baby
friends dropping off baby shower gifts to be shipped off together
houses empty (owners have headed off to spend Thanksgiving with family elsewhere)
houses filling up, cars beginning to line up in driveways (at those serving as gathering places this year)
dogs in neighborhood on high alert
dogs being walked by visiting children and grandchildren
a friendly hubbub at the assisted living facility; visitors from far away, in town for the holiday weekend
the thought of Dave and Millie each finding the pic I left at their doors, the ones of them smiling on Pet Day, and a note thanking each for brightening up the days of others with their smiles – I like thinking of them finding the pics and not knowing who left them. Everybody likes to have a good picture of him/herself.
a perfect Buckeye leaf
all kids and grandkids under one roof
lots of talk, lots of chatter and hubbub
foods looked-forward-to
baby in bath
grandkids in their jammies
day with daughter-in-law
helpers
remembering to make a donation I’ve had on my mind – I want to do more than just think about or talk about important giving
special hand soap pumps, bought on sale and put away, found and set out by all sinks and they all make the house smell great
Thanksgiving playlist
joy in preparing a Thanksgiving dish with the broccoli I froze in July, apple filling make in October
pie crusts that cooperate
the most perfect day ever
swing sets
strollers
balls to pass, balls to kick
smell of turkey
sight of sweet potatoes
taste of green beans
sounds of my people talking
the feel of a plate hitting a tablecloth….soft
a surprise package found by the door
a good visit to assisted living
laughter
the ad-filled newspaper, pored over by our best shoppers, someone else’s tradition brought into our family
something I’ve been looking for, at 1/2 the regular price
grandchildren running and laughing together
naps
lots of ready hands in the kitchen
little fingers enjoying the piano I almost gave away
soup on the stove on a day turned cold
discussing summer reunion plans
the griddle pressed into service – pancakes for the masses
gel sticky window decorations put on my door by a child
switching out fall decorations for Christmas ones
Mexican food
English breakfast tea, sweet with lemon
“home safe” messages on my phone – the chicks all back in their own nests again
a good wreath
the very BEST Thanksgiving weekend ever – I don’t even care that it ended with a cold, it was great!
the opportunity to rest while sick
another “see you 3 months” from Dr. Byrd – may we have lots more of those
my washing machine and dryer, esp. after a family weekend; doing laundry is part of the post-event processing I really enjoy
my baby Susan, turning 25; it has been 25 years since I had my last baby – haha, what a thought!
replacement windows
sound of rain against my new windows
homemade vegetable soup with lentils – it turned out so good I wish I’d kept track of what I was tossing in it
Ma letting the GW nurse know she was sick
cable stitches that look like cables
peanut April has a birthday – have I really been in the parenting business for 35 years?
the opp to conspire with someone to make a nice surprise
his thoughtfulness in asking me if he should swing by Ma’s on his way home from work with anything – he’s thinking not only about me, but about her being sick
3 Simple Practices for a Peaceful Advent
discovering excellent leftovers in the freezer, packaged in meal-sized portions
Christmas mugs coming out of storage
discovering a good thing was contagious
Fezziwig
being out in the fresh air after being in the house for over 5 days
inspiration in the craft store; also restraint
for the ability to keep quiet when a bad response was on the tip of my tongue (multiply this one by about a thousand)
finding what I need is already here
smell of bacon
overhearing a kind word, unexpected, spoken to someone I care about
TubaChristmas to kick off the holidays
the downtown looking good
kids running
4-yr-old trying to eat a cookie while holding a toy, a basketball and another cookie
when good news travels fast
a finished knitting project that fits and looks good
finding a good solution for the mittens, hats and scarves in the closet
fresh insights into familiar passages
little children hanging ornaments on Jesse Tree
seeing a big sister holding newly adopted sibling and smiling
red wool coats
the first really cold day and flurries, very energizing
poems memorized as a child – either forced by teachers or simply heard so often they embedded – they come back to me now as old familiar friends
a need expressed by someone and met by an unexpected visitor before I was even able to take care of it – good for the asker to see!
grapefruit
out for a long walk in the chill air for the first time since having a cold
enjoying touching base with old friends through Christmas cards
a fruitcake arrives
finding just the item I was looking for, first by phone call, then be running out to get it – yes!
catching up with someone
a need to make space causes me to clean out some files and happily part with things kept for no reasons
thoughts of going to my grandmother’s at Christmas and all my cousins being there, too – five kids in our family, seven in theirs, a tiny house, 2 cats, a dog, a tree, meals served in shifts, how did we ever manage, which one of my grandparents felt it just HAD to be hosted there? QUITE an undertaking! Lovely memory.
Belinda writes “this party is like a big family reunion where you get to see more of your favourite people at one time than any other in the year.” Hahaha. The essence of a Christmas party!
real sleep
little traffic on a long ride
reading “A Child’s Christmas in Wales” aloud
kitchen project for more than one person
big ideas discussed
planning surprises, little and big
the meaning of Advent, made new
the new windows, so long talked about, making such a difference on a windy day – and the house seems quieter than it already was
lingering snow on hillsides with little sun exposure – pretty landscapes
wreaths
trees in windows, lit or unlit, decorated or not yet, rich memories
birthday celebrations
memories of times past and people of years ago
snow globes
sleigh bells
craft teamwork – I’d forgotten how much fun it is to have a project to work on
A curious thought – I discover I’d like to be an illustrator – only thing is I don’t have the drawing ability – does this mean I have to fulfill the desire by using words to illustrate?
church Christmas musical – voices and instruments that makes beautiful sounds
cinnamon (likely on this list already, several times)
Alka Seltzer Plus in my bag
seeing the very old lady sitting in front of me jot the name of a person and nursing home on the corner of her bulletin during announcements time – is she planning to visit? send a card? how far back do they go? I love that she made the note to herself
returning home, despite the fact that unpacking is a chore
no emergencies while I was away
a child learning not to touch dangerous things – parents not being slack in that
recognizing the fear behind a feeling of hesitancy – it is good to see what it is (weeks from now I won’t recall what I was referring to, but some things need to be kept vague, the point is the overall thing for which I am grateful)
rain stopping, fog lifting, temps rising as we travel
very old people, dressed for Christmas services, sparkling smiles
a child, book-in-lap, barrette holding back bangs
pinks and reds and creams in a flower arrangement
watercolor paintings
amusement – old movies, interesting eyebrows
new insights into Mary – this will be helpful to me
space to think – for me, the mornings – I wish I could wrap up ‘space to think’ and give it to everyone on my list
iTunesU – podcasts that enable me to audit classes of interest that I probably would not officially sign up for
children hanging ornaments on the Jesse Tree
live theatre
surprises received from FedEx and wrapped before anyone comes home
letting go, recognizing a conversation that can be let go and doing it – no need for a comeback – a good thing
an unexpected whirlwind of thought sends me scrambling for the pen and pad before the sun rises – nice to be that psyched
interest in some new pursuits for 2010
finding a candle stash I can make use of!
I had no big plans to knit, but stumbled upon a fun pattern that uses up some of my yarn stash and I’m really having fun
Ann Voskamp’s phrase “soul stretchmarks” – yes, it can be painful to extend oneself
the energizing effect of a first snow
a Latino friend tells me how to make a tamale
seeing sledders at the college midday
sounds of children in church – peeps, grunts, gurgles and giggles, trying out their voices, being told “shhh”
running into old friends while out-and-about – catching up – a child once babysat for by my baby now has senioritis and can barely wait to go to the college she’s been accepted to
passing a guy running barefoot in Williamstown, seeing RunTellmanRun on a parked van, learning about this fellow’s effort to run from NY to LA, raising awareness of homeless youth and hopefully funds for local initiatives that address their needs. I did not know there was a Tent City in the area….and it is now quite cold, with snow on the ground.
Amazon’s 25 Days of Free Christmas Music
the Post Office being across the street from where I picked up a last-minute item that needed to be shipped
grocery store parking lot packed, but most people were checking out as I entered so I had smooth sailing through the aisles
able to get everything she asked for without going to multiple stores
running into someone I was hoping I had a chance to see
the red of the poinsettia leaves under the light in the evening
memories of Christmases Past, youth group parties and platters full of cookies – I’d forgotten, but that was a good tradition
good post about the darkness and forgetting about the light – I love when I see good stuff on the ‘Net!
the fun (and enormous) paper snowflakes
obtaining the yarns I needed to diversify my poppets
driving around to see the lights
my living room
a year so jammed-packed that it feels like it should have been three
Mark of RadioLingua and Mercedes of Spanishpodcast, a lot of days this last year the only other adult voices I heard
bird bath iceberg
discovering a local yarn shop
birds finding their Christmas breakfast
a gift well-received by someone not very good that
some special music at the Christmas Eve service I almost missed
getting to see extended families and kids return home from college or their lives elsewhere at Christmas Eve services
cinnamon ring
eggs, any style
safe travels for all my little chicks
a Christmas Day walk that involves some run-ins with people we haven’t seen for a while
first time ever went to a movie on Christmas – for Streep, of course – fun
fun with houseguests rarely seen
meals where all the foods turn out well – hahahahaha, how often does that happen?
background music that stays in the background
the right lighting
a late call to the ER ends well and fairly quickly
a record turnout for the holiday lights bike ride
lots of walkers out on a chilly but sunny Sunday, luring me out
the sound of football on the TV as I doze off for a nap
the date 01.01.10
sorting, organizing and consolidating the ornaments
parting with at least 50% of my box and gift bag stash
learning a new game
fun with a 3-1/2 -year old
sleeping well away from home…always nice
baking experiment that turned out well
Jesus Carrera insisting on talking to me in Spanish today, not knowing I’ve been seriously thinking of giving up on my Spanish studies, of not setting yet another goal for that pursuit – I almost thought he’d set one of his New Year’s goals to insist on making me speak in Spanish
perfect breakfast potatoes
home
routine….after a fun-filled long stretch of holidays, alternating between home and travel, packing and unpacking, having company and being company, all sorts of foods, keeping all kinds of hours
newly painted guest room, a long talked-about project
him coming back in, in the dark, before heading out, and reading to me by mini-flashlight the passage that grabbed his attention that morning and telling me why
that the heat vent is by my feet when I roll out of bed to read in the morning
sound of his giggle when talking to the kids
video chat with family
knowing my place in a thing
a chicken roasting as a cold afternoon moves along
lemon in hot tea
letting hair grow a bit longer in winter
this gratitude list
the promise of needed words given and the fulfillment of that promise
5 days straight of sticking to WW without feeling deprived
hunting success – shopping for someone else, finding the needed item, but not the needed size, taking a chance by opting to get a smaller size…it ends up fitting perfectly!
sound of snow under boot
neighbor-talk while shoveling
seeing dogs romp in the snow – pure unfettered enjoyment
mittens on hearth
witnessing an act of kindness – out shoveling in the dark, just before bed, seeing the young man from up the street come on his small tractor and plow out our elderly neighbors – I’m pretty sure unbeknownst to them or anyone else
writing done for day, sometimes without my realizing it
365 Songs! Mark Pendleton’s goal for 2010, to put a song a day…piano instrumentals…out there. For free, through iTunes. Marvelous background music!
a fun iChat
booking rooms for June’s family reunion
crockpot meal smoothing end of full day
stumbling upon more excellent language in Isaiah, today “He pursues them and moves on unscathed, by a path his feet have not traveled before.” 41:3
a wonderful visit and chat with someone
browsing through a fun store, gift certificate in pocket
the opp to ‘show up’ for someone
an insight into the roots of my hermit tendency – overwhelmed by input
burdened by another’s anxiety, then realizing that seeing it is a cue for prayer
days getting longer!
making meals out of what’s already here
happy trip down Memory Lane of Friendships
finding in my closet a sweater I purchased off a clearance rack but never wore because I thought it was too nice for me – oy vey – giving it a try and finding it suited me fine. It changed? I changed? What? Who knows! I’m just happy to find it on a day I didn’t now what to wear and nothing seemed right. Such wranglings over clothes, I can’t abide.
praying for clarity in a situation and beginning to get it
seeing a next clear step, even if it isn’t the whole path
courage when needed
excellent conversation
good time with friends
long phone chat with ODF – I like how when we are done talking through the pressing things – the current things – before we get off the phone, we sort of go down a roll call of both families with one or two words summaries. Sort of headcount taking. Not consciously so much as a habit we’ve gotten into over the years, making sure not to have gotten so caught up in the pressing and current – the squeaky wheels – that we neglect anyone.
rising to the challenge of finding a way to answer an unexpected question
paint color that turns out just right
the sound of water dripping off the canopy at the local school makes it seem like spring through it’s only January
dough rising; bread baking – great smells!
watercolor opp
audiobook I am listening to while walking that is so funny I know I am giggling as I go – wondering how that looks to people seeing me go by
that FB, which can be too much at times when I wonder what people were thinking by posting some things, does occasionally bring me important info that makes me glad I hadn’t yet DEactivated again – it’s part of the new social order and one must be willing to find ways to navigate it to reap the benefits
5,001 decisions to keep blogging – stacked up against the 5,000 times I’ve been on the verge of stopping
excellent meeting, even better than expected – with all involved seeming to leave encouraged or inspired, knowing their clear next step and energized to tackle it
this journal – the impetus, that I’ve kept up, that it brings my thoughts back to a good place and knowing that for everything I record here there are 3 to 4 times more things that I think belonged but neglected to jot them anywhere – that’s okay – knowing that is true adds to the reminder that my cup runneth over – excellent habit this! i don’t post it here to be showy, but because it keeps me accountable because it’s in front of my face almost daily.
LOVE this reminder about the importance of home: http://www.incourage.me/2010/01/setting-the-stage.html
time in the zone – a.m., of course
patience to respond rather than react
Face-in-the-book reminder
a solution for the cheesecake quandary
men in flannel shirts in the Lowe’s aisles early morning, comparing pipe fittings, board lengths, whether the 3/8ths or 7/16ths thingy is the exact right size
big old mourning dove perched on the edge of the almost frozen birdbath – dreams of spring?
smell of soups and pulled pork on a rainy, cold end of afternoon when daylight is fading
words incoming: a funny character sketch received, signs of a writer’s eye and voice in a young person; news of fresh enthusiasm; someone being very frank about their long-haul – all welcome reading
checkbooks balancing without turning into a drudgery, always nice
show-and-tell with a visiting friend, very unlike me (she noted) but we both enjoyed it
a friend’s insights about a story I told that made both of us tear up a bit, and her being bold enough to say “you’ve got to write about this”
unexpected run to store and I run into a friend I don’t see enough of!
listening to friends, hearing their passions, whether they started out meaning to talk about them or not – good stuff!
surprise when someone remembered what I said and followed up with me – then a while later, same day, someone else followed up with me on a different topic - when people pay attention and follow-up, it shows they care
cheese
“My Big, Fat Greek Wedding” – ah, families!
parsley going strong in the garden in late january
fun football phone conversation with B-I-L
people who encourage the dreams of other
a comment about a post from 11 months ago – someone stumbled upon it – it’s nice to think it meant something to someone long after I put it up and forgot about it
a lamp’s warm glow on a gray, rainy day – makes a house seem loved and alive
backhoe going up the road – man in his warmest overalls, hat, gloves – driving somewhere to go some serious digging
discovering a useful bookmarklet
a gentle answer turns away wrath – proverbs 15:1 – glad to have memorized that years ago – has probably kept me out of trouble more than a few times
new recipe from a friend – turned out great
planetarium show brings to mind Psalm 8
a little babysitting gig and a little dog walking gig, all in the same weekend – fun!
enjoying snippets of “The Secret Garden” (70′s version) each evening before calling it a night
new colors on old walls makes the whole world look different
an afternoon fraught with time in waiting room brought me in contact with 2 good articles in magazines I rarely see
the faithful runners of the neighborhood, whatever the temps, flying by sometimes with dogs trailing
writing time
writing focus
actual writing
a honor going to someone I encouraged gives me great delight
two meaningful connections within a few minutes of each other enriches a day
the library surprises me by having two things I didn’t expect
a bounty of writers cropping up – can a writers gathering for us be far off?
an unexpected honor
unexpected bounty of encouraging emails and comments
the January sun shining through bare trees – nice day to take a shut-in for a ride so she feels there’s a reason to have a warm coat still hanging her closet and does not give away her hat, gloves and scarf at the next swap meet - it’s bad enough for a person to feel useless, but for them to feel their clothes are useless can lead to really big problems
joy in see a marionette performance – the puppets seeming to have life breathed into them
divine orchestration – perfect placement
a little spark of thought turns into many posts – short tales that make up one long tale – it was all fun to think about and write
excellent leftovers
scarf-wrapped, buttoned up, ear warmer snug, chill air on cheeks, smell of wood burning in fireplaces…walking in winter
our dedicated doctor
knees holding out for a double walk the day before a storm is due
photos from Atlanta of camellias in bloom outside Suz’ door
drips of rain turning to snow, a snowy weekend ahead, no place we have to be, project supplies on hand, delightfully blessedly homebound
seeds planted by childhood teachers
some words go out – a nudge to reach out, I struggle to find the right words and tone, but do and send it off, unsure of its effect or whether I’ll hear back – an act of faith
finding driveway already shoveled – I muse it may have been someone who caught me shoveling our elderly neighbors out one afternoon. Wally says, “A man has to get up pretty early around here if he wants to shovel his own driveway. Everyone’s racing to outdo everyone else.” Nice!
breakfast guests
an acquaintance turns into a friend
an honest and potentially difficult conversation lightens everyone’s load – thoughts of John 8:32 follow
a friend shares a recipe
grapefruit – certainly of the best creations ever
long phone conversation with someone far away
chocolate covered strawberries – a gift for walking the neighbor’s dog!
a stash of socks, almost none with holes and none of them missing their match
winter beauty
early service
Two reminders to “take things to heart,”Isaiah 42:25 and Isaiah 46:8.
pepper on eggs
Creative fun on display
getting to sing two of my favorite old hymns, rich in memory, back to back
I get a favorable response from #553!
a former student becomes a fine leader
optical illusion – dogwood with snow-tipped branches appears to be bloom
a chuckle at the latest personal shopper sleuthing challenge: “cookies, plain, in an expensive box, from overseas”…hmmm…I’m pretty sure this story concludes with “No, that’s not what I was thinking of,” but the challenge was different and fun. (I went for the Walker shortbreads.)
good words, good reminder, but then one must follow through
snowed in with 5 4 everything bagels in the house – this could be bad
power remaining on
sweet gestures and thoughtfulness
flexibility on everyone’s part in the face of storm-driven schedule changes
hearing of children’s conversations – fleeting joys, but somehow enduring as they bring to mind other times and other children – I would not like living where I never encountered any children
Gene Kelly dancing
reading emails and comments from blog, esp, finding that something I posted spur someone else to tell his/her story, privately or via their blog in some other way – people’s stories are important
storm upon us, the ability to do what needs to be done and the ability to know what can be let go
God’s arm is not too short
fabulous displays of icicles
a day without a schedule
space to work
space for friends
assortment of teas
someone agreeing to seconds, when offered – means they must feel comfortable
being taken by surprise by spring flowers in a store
not having to a tax return for someone
being forewarned of a virus at a place I visit regularly – appreciated that
finding, on a shelf at the grocery store, just what I’ve been looking for – so often the store is out of it and it’s one of the few things a certain person likes
crocus leaves sticking up through the dirt in a sudden corner
hearing someone’s troubles and not needing to rescue them
finding a better window treatment – not just for appearance, but for control of light – ability now to see OUT the window, as desired
cinnamon twists in bakery showcase, bringing some home, sharing some with neighbor
dogs who have clearly had their noses in snow
tenacity in the face of a mechanical challenge – the willingness to keep trying the next thing
grace and graceful words in the midst of frustration – IOW, nobody sees me choking back an “AArrrgghhh!”
sunshine
sunglasses
thoughts of how I can switch over to some spring decor – walking through my stash
availability in time of need
the desire to write a good story – not always there
Lent – a good season – one does not have to be Catholic to observe, participate, reap
water, even if we are under boil advisory
prayer
grace, received and given
clarity in next steps even when all the next steps are still unknown
plans and looking forward
long medium-distance phone chat
medium long-distance phone chat with old friend
Vancouver Olympics – plenty of exciting events to watch as we hope to wind up winter
a new Spring wreath
Spring color
snow-filled furrows in field
sea gulls – dozens and dozens hanging out down by levee
geese out for a walk all suddenly head for the water….the culprit, a marauding dog, passes through
picnics in car on sunny winter day
particulate mask in my bag
seeing people I care have strong support systems – it is not all about me being there – I would like to be the holder of all wisdom and the one who can wave a magic wand over everything, but it isn’t true and it would not be good for either me or others to think it is
running into a friend – it’s like a nice little surprise tucked into a day
Isaiah 60:22 and the words “in its time I will do this swiftly. Reminded me of times I have waited for a long time, for the right time, and then suddenly everything comes together at once.
a slip is not always a fall
a compliment unexpected along my path – I smiled for blocks
finding the watercolor supplies I need – never purchased them before
boys in snowball fights with squirrels
I’ve enjoyed the Vancouver Olympics like no other and will be sorry to see them in.
New insights into John 6 in today’s sermon.
Seeing a familiar face unexpectedly!
Being glad I asked a question of the person sitting next to me.
Thinking how I’d like a button that says “ASK ME how many days remain in Lenten,” then realizing I don’t know. I like that the number is not on the tip of my tongue. I’m in. Not waiting to get out. In.
Watching hockey. I mean, paying attention. Whoever wins, I’m happy! Doesn’t get better than that.
The P&G “Thank you, Mom” commercials.
Along the edges of the walk, a growing margin of green grass appears and DST coming into view, at least in church bulletin .
my blog – stories presenting themselves, fun in telling them and new insights seen
the benefits of having to have an ‘every-3-months checkup’ mindset – prioritizing, not getting ahead of oneself, letting go of what doesn’t really matter – also, taking things that might usually be pushed aside and bringing them forward – not procrastinating of some stuff
a conversation generates an idea that inspires work and gives thoughts a place to go on a weekend when it would not be good for a mind to wander aimlessly
Sabbath rest
the lady from a local church who regularly sends a card – she does not even know him/us
being invited to guest-post – an honor!
scoring a case of Ma’s favorite Fuze flavor…on sale!
enjoying Ken Burns World War II series and seeing how a master takes an enormous unwieldy topic and finds a way to tell it. Always great work from Burns
his pointing out to me Julie Zickefoose’s series of posts on how she painted some prairie chickens – Parts ONE, TWO and THREE
“Who will take care of that?” I wonder and shortly afterwards a person comes to mind. A question comes and an answer to it. All good.
Storm-free travel
great checkup
a dinner guest
painting with watercolors
rediscovering a favorite soup recipe
an unexpected visit
Girl Scout cookies arrive
Girl Scout cookies untouched
red grapefruits from Texas
crocus and daffodil greens appearing as snow recedes
a wonderful audiobook
road trip
positive feedback on a piece I was unsure about
pics of great-niece
excitement of waiting for new great-nephew to be born
increasing daylight
finding and hitting my stride
new CLL friend
good quote (Thanks, April!): “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain
news of a great-nephew BORN!
seeing a fine big poodle
more fun with watercolors
bulbs appearing overnight – amazing – check garden in evening, nothing…in morning, bulbs are up a couple of inches!
good trip to NJ and back
important conversations
wounds healed? maybe not, but maybe the beginning of healing or maybe just stopping the bleeding, a breather
hubbub of a gathering, white noise
the smell of bacon, coming from somewhere, while walking
cool spanish words for which there is no English equivalent – consuegros = those you are parents-in-law with, jointly, the in-laws of your son/daughter…you are inlawing ‘con’ or ‘with’ them – like that!
someone mellowing
warm weather suddenly and the porch-sitters back out here and there
shamrocks
the blue head of a pigeon
waiting for the river to crest, people to care about if it’s too high
smell of mud
news that someone is adjusting well
preferring not to care, but finding I do…direction
an excellent program with Dr. Byrd as speaker…so many other good speakers…an interesting and good day
someone needing vision, getting it
good laughs over little things
kindred spirits – one should never take these for granted
getting better acquainted
a library cookbook provides needed inspiration
planning a new garden
news of Katie, all is great
finishing the reading of Isaiah (though sorry to see it go) – a huge undertaking, it seemed when I began
getting the name of someone who can really help
St. Mary’s fish fry
soft amber lighting in the windows when darkness falls
when things-stirred-up ends up with a good outcome, turmoil proving necessary as opposed to turmoil for the sake of turmoil
haircut that works in all weather
the swing at Glenwood
pansies on parade at Lowe’s
lumber aisle smell
a conversation about important things with a friend
ANN’s Easter Tree
BILLY seeing something in his kids and yearning to recapture an ability
DEIDRA reporting on the ability of two newfound chairs to set off an entire room renovation
BRIAN, a fellow CLL-er, shares pics of a seaside chapel that looks like a fish
BELINDA , reluctant caregiver for a gift of Amish Bread starter
best corned beef dinner I ever made
walking the entire length of the RiverTrail
enters with crocus and daffodils
the mowers getting serviced, another sign of Spring
inspiration for my current project – a perfect anecdote – popping up in the living of everyday – love that
sound of early morning Sunday soccer being played by local members of the Hispanic community – its their only time off all together and it means something to them
excellent movie
searching for my mother
good to see my people
an open Sunday afternoon
writing by the river
a spontaneous and meaningful gathering
Truth – seeing what really IS rather than what we might like to see; Truth is always better – helps clarify things
grapefruit
a good Lenten observance, as opposed to one done just out of tradition and without much behind it or much investment of myself
how Moleskines inspire
rain on roof
the shamrock opening each morning
spirea sprouting tiny leaves
first really thick morning fog
steam rising from newly tilled fields
long walk to lock, leg holding out
new Kate Braestrup book
some CSS help that really helps
dinner guest
turkey meatballs
painting talk yielding insights about writing
writing talk while painting
Pelotonia stirring some excitement here
a different feeling this 3 months
seeing an article I consulted on well-received
the psychiatric nurse working out for her, a smooth answer for a problem
resisting,,,,all sorts of things…successfully
needed help, help appeared
dogwood bud starting to open
bulbs planted last fall, an act of faith, popping up everywhere now
being reminded of the importance of volunteering
unexpected 15 minute wait in the most pleasant of settings…time to regroup, decompress…a little surprise along the way
v-chatting with my girls
a bread braid that glowed golden
a day without looking at a watch or clock
a little Spanish in my day
a 55-minute walk
star magnolias
a mystery to chase down
songs that make me walk faster
songs that make me sing while painting
songs that make me tear up with good memories
looking forward
an early service
Quaker thoughts
strawberries are back!
trip to Goodwill, lightening our stash, making a good “find” for someone else
figuring out some CSS – getting the annoying search box off the top right corner of the blog
treasure hunts
smell of mowed grass
finding ‘sherbet colors’ in the clothing store
several excellent experiences with customer service people – makes SUCH a difference
looking around the room and knowing people
a singer smiling as though she’s enjoying herself
delightful phone conversation
having people to share with
a good hubbub in church
Holy Week
the quiet places – alone but not lonely
wide sidewalks
porches
shade trees getting leaves not that warm days have come
big windows
egg hunt
arrival of my Advent/Lenten Wreath
a walk through a garden dept - beauty on display
recipes from friends, so that a good dish is made even more wonderful by a memory
photos taken by blogging friends from all around the world and shared – I feel like I am there!
an invitation to join a book discussion group
an opp for childlike behavior - sitting on Easter Bunny’s lap (things we do for the people we love)
trees I have history with
a good Good Friday
a rich Holy Saturday
looking forward to the Easter
fitting a skirt I didn’t think I could wear again – how about that?
Easter music that makes me well up in tears
A favorite old hymn
A favorite newer song
A favorite blend of voices
A favorite classic
the colors of Easter that people wear
a kindly gentleman
peal of bells from a downtown church, loving the sound going out across the town as we drive home
a perfectly lovely day – storybook – picture perfect – how often does that happen?
doing the thing that doesn’t make sense, but seems the clear next step
boxwoods punctuating a hedge
an excellent PBS series about WWII, loaned by S-I-L, makes me appreciate afresh sacrifices of the generation before me
pizza – first time in a long time
such fun, warming leftovers of one friend’s recipe with another friend, and then painting
magic—–flowers appear on what was, moments earlier, a blank page
childlike behavior – sitting with Easter Bunny at someone else’s request
the sight and sound of a choir
children brought out to sing at the end of service
I FINALLY land a native Spanish speaker for a language intercambio!
farmer’s market bustling with activity
all the sounds of a Saturday
every park and playing field in town in use
a sign I love
a sign I’ve never seen before
a sign that makes me laugh
gaining a little more compassion for those whose to-do lists get longer and longer
a night of humor
living in reality
seeing choices in response and seizing on better ones
a very good study about the importance of visiting the sick, even when it doesn’t seem to make a difference
periwinkles looking just as I always envisioned, for the first time
the visiting nurse, eager and enthusiastic
a helpful insight from a professional
the brush of redbud across hills
hardworking early start of the Water Co. guys
chatting with neighbors in evening, catching up a bit
Pez wall
a trip that takes me out of town for a day at the end of a tough week
walking through park, encountering Earth Day exhibits
live music wafting through the air on a Saturday morning
a basketful of herbs with all my favorites
rest for the weary
the tiredness that comes from good hard work
movies about lives and worlds I know little about (Whip It – roller derby)
a training success
roadside rhododendron
a little boy calling my name
a partner in snack crime
safe travels
live performance theater
catching up face-to-face
new places
unexpected musical treat at a meal
adventure with duck eggs
catching Lady Banks at peak
table of students studying at Tim Horton’s when we pass through the drive-up at 5 AM, making me wonder: Been there all night or just arrived?
bald eagle’s surprise appearance overhead
butter brickle ice cream
hair conditioner (appreciated most when forgotten at home)
the book club selection (Cameron’s “The Right to Write”)
some cooking inspiration
a chance to write finally
violet sage
spirea
a visiting dog willing to act as footstool
rain that stays outside and does not come into the basement
a break in the water line causes a mini-geyser but it’s far from the house
sleeping well away from home (I didn’t use to be able to do that)
azaleas brought in and put in a vase
lilies of the valley
peonies
eggs
take-offs and landings
warm breezes
bench in a sweet spot
shallow rivers with little rapids
children playing
picking out the individual sounds in the instruments
picking out the individual songs of birds
Smart cars
rainbows
breeze blowing through curtains
sunrise
sunset
music in the house
sautéed green peppers
aprons
an assortment of teas and a boiling kettle
clean windows
calming wall colors
fresh sheets
fun socks
time for some one-on-one conversation
kids on bikes
flowing dresses
cards sent for no reason
writers conferences
art museums
people helping each other
stories of long ago
pictures that tell a story
being in the zone
a good book to read
outdoor cafes
being comfortable and dressed right an event instead of fussing the whole time
good smells wafting by
Sunday naps
the comic section
systems that work
a word fitly spoken
bare feet
ocean waves
sunglasses
rain…when it’s not coming in
snow…when there’s nowhere to go
puppies
rocking chairs
witnessing grace
good night’s sleep
connecting with people
clouds
shade gardens
dappled sunlight
school buses
strolling through Lowe’s
belly laughs
mis consuegros
a really good cup of coffee when needed
public library (thank you, Ben Franklin)
planning a new garden
closure, every so often it’s a nice thing to have
tents and the reminder of camping days
running into old neighbors, catching up
the sound of a laugh loved but not heard for a long time
short hair in warm weather
short hair and riding with the windows down
finally, a decision about a new bike
the new bike
the new bike’s journal - retrieving a blank one from the stash to start recording adventures
being given a task that I am able to do, one that really helps ease someone’s angst
fellow watcher-outers who help in caring for
grapefruits still
I did not crash into a car blocking the bike trail
coffee with a friend, a good catch-up, give-and-take – important moments, these
book discussion, globally and locally
time in the kitchen and remembering other enjoyable times in the kitchen – rich thoughts
chives sporting their purple tops
the blue of lobelia
knowing I need to refrain from giving advice, doing so
putting off what can and should be, setting aside urgency in order to give full attention to what’s important
the neighbor tilling, promise of a summer’s growth to watch
the smell of soil turned
a much needed rain hat
an hour’s cycling
an hour’s weeding
Judy Collins in the background
running into people downtown, catching up
seeing a Yorkie in the drivers seat, going by
a thing I think impossible to paint turns out recognizable, at least
going for help, as a life skill
changing chapters
steady rain
full birdbath, dry basement
the sound and sight of a grackle taking a bath in the puddle at the end of the driveway
an audiobook for company on walks, if I need one
homemade tomato soup
baking with puff pastry
geese circling for a landing
the good words of caring friends
smell of peonies
biking through clouds of honeysuckle
the smell of cut grass, dampish after days of rain
critters scrambling as I bike past
push mower, getting in a walk while cutting the grass
a call that comes for absolutely no reason but to say hi
summer haircuts, even if they do look a lot like my winter haircut
the fight footwear for the job
a sportsman cleaning out his Jeep
anticipating the arrival of lavender plants
conversations with neighbors seen while out on my bike
two little bikes with training wheels parked in front of bakery
fun at a soccer game
prom night in town, rain held off, crowds at all the good photo spots
enjoyable visit to the rehabilitation facility to visit an elderly neighbor trying to regain his strength after a bout of pneumonia
conversation with another writer in the neighborhood
farmer displaying lots of hope
signs for ice cream socials begin popping up
big dog with little girl – cute companions
Saturday Night Lite
the sun after not seeing it for a while
Knock-Out roses
Sun AM – streets quiet, church parking lots full
Sun AM – families in town walking to church
Sun AM – kids skipping to and from church
Sun AM – bikes parked outside church
Sun AM – men in dress shirts – with or without ties
Sun AM – Bibles in hand
morning glories strings up
how the garden suggests things for dinner – arugula in abundance made the base for a marvelous salad I hadn’t even thought of
dogs barking good morning and good evening in the distance
warm days, but cool nights for sleeping, no need for A/C yet
45 miles on my bike in just 2 weeks + 2 days – a surprise to me as well
shrubs talking to me – “haircut, please”
roadside wildflowers – purples, yellows, whites – waving as we pass
an invitation to go for a ride for absolutely no reason at all except to hang out together
thick, soft tablecloth on patio table calling us outside to eat, have a coffee, read, write, whatever
hope of cookies in near future
parsley in abundance
challenges in front of me giving me something to shoot for – will I ever get that black-and-white study right?
a salty french fry every so often
preschool programs, the little faces capturing the whole range of human emotions
cousins chasing each other
love notes left on pillows
a welcoming gate at the end of the journey
family vacation
a squirrels gymnastics on a branch
the fascinating plumage of a rooster
a baby goat’s sweet face
MORE cousins chasing each other, different ones
swimming pool fun
immense gardens, encounter with lush beauty and color
safe travels
absence of anxiety in places where it’s usually found
sleeping well
smell of bacon
learning a new game
trimming back spirea and sage with visions of a second blooming later
Ann’s “leaving and cleaving” post – a tender truth
morning rain pouring straight down, windows open, no need of rain-scented candles here
when the opportunity is accompanied by enthusiasm for the task – a blessing
a sudden willingness to part with a painting I couldn’t bear the thought of parting with
schedule flukes ending up to be schedule improvements – when things a misunderstood bit of confusion and it all turns out to be even better than planned
little milestones passed….100 miles on the bike odometer
a mix-up with an order leaves me with a prepared garden, empty and waiting for plants….then finding the plants I need are already here and ready to be moved from other spots in the yard. Love when I find what I need is already right under my nose.
being outside, early morning, sounds of the world waking up
a thirsty dog runs through the yard, grateful for a dish of water before moving on
spotting a black lab pup leads to meeting someone who lives around the corner
unexpected enjoyment, watching ON PURPOSE a world cup soccer game
Wally in sandals
good laughs with Ma
following through on a nudge to write to someone and hearing back that it was needed at that very moment – I like being on either end of that type of exchange
a Gratitude Journal getting so long I think I need to begin a separate post for it!
a story that will not let me go and I realize I need to write it down
sound of water rushing over a spillway – fabulous background for reading, thinking, writing
the gift of an excellent worship service shared
an intriguing movie of a rainy day
a movie that made us laugh out loud
a day that feels like a vacation, very unexpected
bike trail fun ride on a hot day
French toast with bacon
discovering we are thinking the same thing
a neighbor’s help
permission to do someone’s dishes
new fun! – discovering myself enjoying World Cup soccer, something completely new to me, something I would not have expected
I think I need more basil in the garden, but hesitate purchasing some; a few days later extra basil comes to me from someone thinning out plants
speaking the language of the garden
lessons from baby monitors
sweeping things together, gathering what needs to be disposed of
picking up sticks, making the path clear
double-teaming a toddler
new food experiences (we try crab legs) – fun!
Frank Deford’s book, “Alex” – a study in grief/loss – best I’ve seen
ability to refrain from a poor response
a seemingly blocked path and then seeing a step that can be taken…I write a note
funny things in the news: “They couldn’t have been spies….Look what she did with the hydrangeas.”
good day of writing
good day of reading
a break from the heat
breezes through car windows
plant shut-down; adjusted hours; home at 2:30; bike rides – alright!
an encouraging word…that I believed
the library, in all seasons - a treasure waiting to be discovered
an audiobook I’d forgotten I requested comes in/ h-o-u-r-s of walking/biking pleasure!
my virtual bike tour to Cape May
hibiscus en masse
resolution
my first bike ride all the way to town
the smell of butterfly bushes and heliotrope
the baby lavender plants showing promise
geraniums along my path
church fantastic
4th of July songs and remembrances
family picnics
corn high, 4th of July
discovering a good deed done by someone
further research into family mystery – trip to Barberton
signs I’m getting better
smell of break baking
early morning cycling on a Monday holiday
river full of fishing boats, early morn
tents set up along river, tucked in under trees that lean over the waters
through trees spotted, a fellow floating on raft down river, looking happy as can be
a white-haired lady with a cane walking the lock road – being counted amongst the walkers, bikers, joggers – alright!
doctor’s words, ‘You’re fine. No need to come back.”
plants that thrive in heat – the portulaca
greens beans, julienned
the lime shirt
relief felt, stepping into A/C after being in the heat
relief felt, stepping into the summer warmth after being in A/C
an initiative to help tobacco farmers transition to other crops
the company of a good book: Malcolm Gladwell’s Outliers
mowing done
full week, well-ended
gathering of tikes
fun party treats
birthday boy
someone who understands
needed rain
safe travels
hanging out, no pressing need to program what people do
being in the midst of good conversation
looking forward to Sunday morning
Christmas in July, including carols!
when the sermon addresses a question I’ve been pondering all week
in less than months, bike odometer over 200 miles
sense of satisfaction after getting a story, long known, written
feedback
World Cup finals
Sunday afternoon ice cream cone
after a dry spell, some good steady rain
ducks on levee after downpour, dipping bills in puddles
a high hurdle, scaled – a long-procrastinated-upon appointment made and kept
frank words, well received
a friend landing a job
a spontaneous frozen mocha break with three friends – indulgence!
getting in and out of the doctor’s a lot faster than expected
good advice
a bike ride of good length before the chain came off
the start of a new book
the beginning of squash in abundance
finding something is still under warranty
looking forward, where there used to be dread
bumping into people (for chat, not a collision)
peach pie filling, made and frozen less than 24 hours after peaches were picked
a getaway in the works
thoughts of my summer week at Gram’s
the way summer fills the senses
a shower
bargains at the nursery, filling in the empty spaces in containers
cloud shapes
corn on the cob
numerous screenings can be done in one place, all on same day
activities that restore
my car, my bike and my body survive thorough goings-over
slow envelopment of patio by morning glories on pergola
reading and being read to before bedtime
writing long, happy about how I came to have Gram’s bed
late night talks
breakfasting at a place displaying the work of local artists – an artist’s date unexpected!
winning combo: a boy, a stream and some rocks
library fun
making my first tomato pie
witnessing imagination in action – except ye become as children…
reading to child, seeing mother fell asleep
road travel through places of great beauty – some have to schedule these places as destinations – I do not want familiarity to cause me to miss the beauty of the mountains – in all seasons, beautiful
start of a new sermon series at evening service
running into friends not seen in a while after church – nice surprise, glad for the chat
quick, heavy rain that ushers in cooler temperatures after a heat wave – finally, a windows-open day, lunching on patio, reading first chapter of new book in shade of backyard tree
sufficient salad and leftovers for dinner
red-shirted girl in the line-up of old fishermen
Friday evening gathering – Grandpa using pop-gun, showing the kids his shot….fire in a circle of rocks…guitar being warmed up
smells I encounter while biking…dryer sheets, what’s in bloom, charcoal fires, mown grass, sun-baked tar, fish..
everywhere, the beach
school parking lot, newly paved and lined
signs for community picnic
Ann Morrow Lindbergh’s gem, written around the time I was born, marvelous to me today
shopping day in Columbus -
excitement of a few good reads on the Barnes Noble clearance table
disposing of never to be used greeting cards
good morning in church
brunch at boat launch
bike ride with Mastewal
disposal of old filing cabinet, finally
cleaning out garage shelves – decisions made!
phone conversation with friend not seen in a while
grass between toes
the assisted living resident who dresses always as if she has somewhere to go or someone is coming to visit, even when neither is true; she is not saving her good stuff for the right occasion; today is the right occasion!
magnolia blooming a second time (Aug 1)!
houseguests
dinner with friends
sandbox play
giving pushes on swings
new of his reaching Pelotonia fundraising goal
cloud cover on a dog day afternoon
post office chatter, hearing the little stories of here-and-there around town
a prayer need picked up in conversation
a prayer request asked for directly
space for private conversation where I did not expect one – important
trip to town, having all the lists and coupons with me – rare, that
seeing my house through a child’s eyes
people sleeping on porches, in chaise lounges in yards, books closed….dog days of August
lines of field-grown mums ready for delivery to market
tomatoes in abundance
feeling rich
the white haired woman a few rows up who nodding when the pastor says the Spirit intercedes for us, as one who knows from experience – me nodding inwardly sees her head nod, strangers agreeing with each other
Tito’s tales of his travels in this country
seeing fog rising off the river early in the day we’ll be heading out to Pelotonia, sense of symbolism somehow
smell of fresh tar
how well planned Pelotonia was, the many details so well attended to – a joy to see
hordes of volunteers
days rich with story
the beautiful near-bald woman in treatment who came out to cheer riders
the good feeling that comes from working hard
a soaking rain bringing relief from hot sun
warm breezes pushing storm off, drying clothes
incoming msgs from those thinking of us over the course of the day
listening to his ride stories over coffee and bagels after church
feeling a bit too tired to go out, but going anyway, not sure why it seemed so important to go, then discovering the reason – being there when someone heard hard news, just so they weren’t alone, important
amid busyness and noise, having a chance to make an important call in near quiet
exhaustion catching up, the opp to lie down for 15
being able to let go of what does not need to happen in a day meant for other purposes
discovery of a cool recipe site when I am out of ideas
enthusiasm to tackle the kitchen project, taking a first step
seeing obstacles, but seeing them as direction
seeing old friends in a sea of strangers
making a new acquaintance
thinking of how spring is just coming on the opposite side of the world, while autumn is nearing here
surprising someone with turkey meatballs and sauce made from tomatoes they grew
paying respects
waffle cones
school back in session, the routine of the school year returns
cooler temps after a long stretch of hazy, hot, humid
spectacular mums on display (ha! where this journal began last year, I see)
a superior wrapping job done on an item received in the mail
despite distractions in church two weeks in a row, ability to focus and lesson learned (I am reminded about pre-service conversations, to make sure they aren’t interfering with the experience of others)
another good find on the Borders clearance table
good places to exercise my chapter-a-day book reading habit
leaves falling, spooking me into thinking someone is near – every years they trick me
listening to Mrs. Dalloway on CD, my first ever Virginia Woolf
sorting and organizing the table linens, after a year of saying, “Someday I’m going to go through those and clear out.”
when expired debit card fails to work, having sufficient cash on me – a rarity!
news of Ann’s upcoming book – small group possibilities??
catching the last hour of daylight to grab another spin on the bike
socializing with the night crowd out walking and riding
breezes that swell the senses and thoughts
Gram’s operation going smoothly
flights delayed, a workaround rises
Camp Merle closing ceremonies
sound of his footsteps in the hallway, late
Labor Day weekend, lovely, has a feeling all its own – 400 miles on the bike odometer is within reach
hydrangeas, dried, come inside to fill baskets – I will still be loving them at Thanksgiving and beyond
mums brought home, merlot and pink this year, full of buds, barely any open yet, it will be a long season!
windows-open weather
long-sleeve riding
the passing smell of a fireplace burning on my morning ride
chat with neighbor at mailboxes
shower of leaves in a breeze
raking on a perfect day
looking forward to church
parade floats
marching bands lining up, flags twirled and thrown
peaches, glorious peaches
doctors doing Saturday surgery on a long weekend (Helen breaks her ankle )
my blog readers, their voices into my life
hummingbird in morning glories
smell of bacon from house window
riding bike to church
couple carrying kayak to river
tough week, tiring but well-navigated
Julie Zickefoose’s article, “The Enormous Egg”
being not just moved but unsettled by awareness of a need – why? I wonder – why unsettled? Is there something in it for me, somewhere I’m supposed to engage?
Kelly Corrigan’s words, realistic portrayal of adjusting to possibility of a diagnosis (a good read, may be useful to me in an upcoming piece)
dogs saying hello to me…and me to them
long ride UP from the river, first time, that
long ride OUT past the greenhouses and the park, ever-widening circles, new abilities/strengths witnessed
he has a good time at a men’s outing
I hear back from someone I wrote to for info….just about the time I’d given up hearing
long walks spontaneous on gorgeous weekend days lately
swirling leaves
shells dropping from trees near land in my bike basket – are squirrels targeting me?
cats along RiverTrail, all sizes and colors
people with jug of milk and food for the RiverTrail cats
trimmed shrubs
dried hydrangea heads, some brown but some bluish-green
interest expressed in another neighborhood potluck….guess the last one really WAS a success
prayed over details pan out well
a good story and hearty laugh shared with a relative
the scritch-scratch of someone working on something across the street…smoothing something out with a tool, ahh, sprucing up a mailbox post!
getting out the fall decoration
new cushions on dining room chair
my Spanish is graciously corrected – thank you, Enrique!!
a day when things sync after days of things not
learning of a good meetup between two people
smell of rain somewhere near, hope of it here
rain, slow and steady, much needed
a new shirt that I am surprised to like
bridge disappearing into early morning fog
twin bikes and boys at bakery
Dragon Boat practice through the brush
Boy Scouts on the trail
Paws Walk, all manner of dog represented in the parade, the Yorkies the only ones not keeping pace, but endlessly hoping to dart ahead, gain on a foe, be at the head of the line
the MedEvac helicopter, reminding me that part of being connected is caring for each other in time of need
Max
the ‘sticker shock’ sermon
the choir, not seen for a couple of months
writing ideas percolating
Annie’s blues
savoring the book just finished, pondering which one to pick up next
rediscovering my autumn decorations brought out of storage
passing the 500 mile on my bike odometer – equivalent of riding here to Springfield IL (Lincoln’s stomping grounds)
reading a short story set in a place I’ve been, being able to envision – fun!
the feel of a Friday afternoon
sound of geese
geese in flight, practice runs
the birthday rule
home improvement
great sermon
conversation with new person
extra patience when needed
meeting the land paddler guy
belly laughs when needed
getting some handwritten notes off
plenty of WW points for whatever
mums about to bloom, about to burst
spontaneous poem for a friend
good relationships with assisted living staff (really comes in handy)
neighborhood enthusiasm for upcoming 2nd community potluck, word-of-mouth from last year seeming to come into play
a meeting I almost regret attending and think of sneaking out of turns out to yield some useful info
cooler temps, new recipes cooking, house smelling good
background music just right
meeting challenges of an anxious day
surprises from a friend
learning that a friend who had hoped to find some genealogical info while traveling fared well with that
NuTCRaCKeR plans for December!!
special days
the mums
a long-awaited call; I find a msg on my phone; the cabinetmaker cometh
grass gone to seed, waving….pretty
much needed rain
little boys birthday greetings in video and by phone – sweet voices
anniversary – 37th – marking it well
the blue of an October sky
lace work artistry of spider web
house chimneys back at work as evening temperatures dip
soccer evenings under the lights
a boy practicing his skateboarding, dreaming of getting that new move just right
fields gone gold
caregivers
horses in the exercise yard, unbothered by me going by on my bicycle
book recommended and loaned – I come home with it under my arm, excited to discover story within
inspiration for recipe when I need to bring something but my mind is blank
peace, when stuck, to know I must not need to press on right now
the practice of Sunday gathering
getting unstuck
warm bagels, hot coffee
the mess a house can seem when things are being staged for an event – the sign that things are happening
clouds looming, a new neighbor calls to see if plans are still on, not sure about coming with the weather iffy, but showing up in the end
a neighbor’s grace-saying
hub-bub of conversation, nobody left out
meal shared
a fire for warmth and marshmallow toasting
after a full day’s input, time to process
an audiobook involving a knitting club sparks thoughts of my needles and my too-large yarn stash
gift of a new cookbook to peruse
rest
fun of cheering local teams
clear skies, lovely sunny weekend after a string of cold, grey weather
technology successes
fog like cotton batting lying in river beds
crossing mountains – Catoctin, Blue, Kittatinny, others
heading north, encountering trees at peak color!
cache of photos, not know in existence, of grandparents and great-grandparents
nostalgia tours
driving out past where the freeway ends to old haunts
how trees in swamps turn color first
being entrusted with a story, having a notepad to get the details straight
hearing a story I know I will remember without my notepad
being made to feel part of things
meals with people rarely seen
a memory of someone missed when there is time acknowledge the missing before pressing on
a good cup of coffee – just one – and time to savor
reunions – planners who spend so much time and energy creating the right environment – also, those who show up, the bright shining faces
sound of leaves under foot or under bike wheel
rescue of the Chilean miners!
the same plumber for 15 years
the Italian miniature greyhound who runs along inside his fence, without barking, escorting me as I bicycle by – “Hello Dante!”
good news about a meeting fraught with potential for upset going off smoothly
a good walk with music that puts a spring in my step, does not let me dawdle
a visit with my neighbor
beautiful trees all over the place, right there and free for the viewing
homemade soup, esp. ultimate tomato
ear warmers
just when my thoughts were turning to working off some of my overflowing yarn stash, a new scarf pattern I might try
completing a cycling goal for this year ()ct. 16, 2010) – riding the length of Hockhocking Adena Bikeway – 20 miles with a headwind
the start of a new book – like the start of a new adventure
warm shower….I take this for granted a lot
colors of autumn, brilliant orange and red, the shapes of gourds
a chance passing by the Borders clearance table finds all books on it on sale for $1 (we pick up 4)
connections, sometimes taken for granted
more great thoughts coming out of Book of Jeremiah
a sign that stirs a memory
a gift of crimson daylilies from a neighbor thinning out a perennial bed
the finding of something lost and thought gone forever
getting reacquainted with the big manuscript, remembering I liked it
hope regarding my Suddenlink problem
making my first apple pie of the season
tailgating fun
late October sunny days
seeing people not seen in a long time
meeting someone new, learning about new things
tweets from a conference I could not attend
the company of the full moon while driving in the dark – there in the evening and again in the early morning
long overdue phone conversation
church great
a walk through the cemetery
a colleague’s book to read by the river
lamps as days darken earlier
reliable washer and dryer
hot tea on a cold day
charming tale of old friends
good news from far away, improved health
Fun with Phyllo
an inquiry much appreciated
a storm that does not live up to predictions
something different…a new (to me) podcast, very enjoyable
the RiverTrail tunnel mural
running into old friends I’ve been meaning to see
important conversations
soup weather
fun with the fountain pen – a bonafide longhand letter
the apple farmer at market
flowers outlasting the first frost
smell newly washed jackets, waking up from a long rest in closets
late season bike rides
someone else’s following through
thoughts of tree-tagging that inspire
words needed and time to write them
costumed surprises
start of new ear warmer
a tree exhibiting ALL the colors leaves can be – all
petting a dog
patience
staying on program
noting a years’s improvements
teams working together well
seeing baby steps taken
boundaries
friends who understand a delay in response
dalmatian in passenger’s side of a pickup
lunch breaks
a yorkie looking and acting just like Katie
dependable car, esp when there’s a lot of running to do
dog watching, eyes fixed on door of store into which his owner went
early morning clarity
a needed list coming together
walks bundled up for
brilliant orange-red trees
knitting project that fits in my bag and goes along with me to the ER
pen and pad
good laughs in unexpected places
child peering at bakery display case, eyes big
tree-tagging
riding in car, sun shining in, cold day outside
empty to-do list, nothing pressing for 3 whole hours
a door opening for some friends – yay!
audiobook that makes me laugh while walking
ah, sleep
church
organizational prompts that keep me on track when things get crazy
old ladies who are snappy dressers
reading back through this list
herbs still going strong outside
finally finding a good replacement soup pot for the one worn through
river twinkling in sunlight
boots with some traction to climb a hill
him mindful of the drip that’s not making it onto my radar screen – things are covered
warm days, mid-November
needed details falling into place
the dog who visited with me at the picnic table by the river
overcoming hesitation, joining others
good time in new group
riding North Bend for first time
train tunnels
horses on trail, a dog accompanying
a information board, well-tended up-to-date
knitting project moving along nicely, giving me something good to work on when I need to crash
a good question posed, the fun of thinking through my answer
Shoebox dropoff day
a hermit gets a roommate she cares about
new fun socks and a pr of fun shoes that will really get some wear
signs of health/improvement where it was in question
a visit from little boys and my toys coming out to play
Sunday marvelous again
seeing familiar faces
a friend to confide a concern to
my head and heart into a writing project and a rainy day with no appointments to run to
a text msg, news my concern is being remembered
dinner in freezer
an old photo and the thoughts triggered
my trash pick-up guy’s friendly demeanor
news of a gift given used well
good talk with a nurse who furthers my thinking
invitation from far away
electric candles in windows as days grow shorter
the care group
Psalm 121
bank windows decorated
discovering the scarf I just finished goes with the sweater I’m planning on wearing
an early morning walk
sun burning off a thick fog
when the first coffee of the day, maybe the only coffee of the day, is really good
a fat book of stories
a trip to Sherwin Williams
painted daisy decides to bloom in mid-November
Christmas movies – sometimes even the cheesy ones
a bike ride
chatting with neighbors
delivering mail to someone who is lonely
homemade soup leftovers
exploring the whole foods store
knitting season returns
visit to yarn shop
town tree being decorated
freshly swept hardwood floor
kitchen project, long in the planning stages, begins
treehouse/boys with fort
good news report on broken bones healing
and more good news of baby coming
figuring out a technology puzzlement at last!
conversations with all three of my kids in one afternoon
Thanksgiving parade
lovely Thanksgiving dinner and setting
no reason to go anywhere, playclothes on a rainy afternoon
faces of downtown buildings
when someone discerns what needs to be done and shares their discovery with me
space for an important conversation, unhurried
getting a shut-in out for a ride, feeling like it’s a breakout and I get to drive the getaway car
Nutmeg’s picture
a bittersweet goodbye – happy for another’s opportunity, sad to see her go
an important phone conversation with a distant relative
a good writing challenge comes to me
finally finding a needed item….and then getting it for 75% off
getting in the walk
delicious leftovers hitting the spot after a day’s work
a willingness to rip out stitches and not consider it time wasted
freshly made bed
morning quiet
weekend away
a reason to stay up late
teamwork on a dirty job
knowing the dish to make
a flurry of flurries, unexpected
kids in holiday finery
live performance
crockpots
little hands holding my ball of yarn
stepping out of the cold and into the warm sanctuary
needing to squeeze together, fill empty spaces, make room
a youth choir
laughter in church
winter beauty swirling, roads remaining dry
a boy testing the ‘tongue on a pole’ warning
home
being at peace with ‘good enough’
letting go of what doesn’t need to happen this minute
making an important inquiry rather than holding back, seeing it have effect
discovering an extra doctor, a friend, stepped in on the case, consulting without our knowing it, just making sure
a tree just right
bike weather, an unexpected day mid-December
an item that’s just what I needed but was not actively searching for, calling to me from a store window
a dead space made useful and attractive
permission-to-touch decorating
feeling at home
the Pan Theory – sticking with God until it pans out
a needed menu comes together
a call from a friend
a shopping partner when two carts are needed
lemons
a call to the ER, ability to spring from bed to meet it
a heavy coat and gloves
cheerful assistance
someone who calls me with information so I don’t have to call for it – a rarity, this
a party and the ability to enjoy it
knowing the people I care for are cared for
sense of peace and unhurriedness in the midst of unknowns
knowing again it is true, that what is needed will have its time and place and space
good cup of hot tea
the igloo
when time stands still
license plates from out-of-state begin popping up, Christmas approaching, families gathering
patience, not pretend
a sumptuous green
being where I recognize people and they recognize me
Sunday thought-swirls
an unexpected invitation
an old movie
a short nap
a Christmas playlist in the background
on a hard day, running into an old friend by the elevator, sharing a good memory
on a hard day, a kind word from someone hardly even seen
on a hard day, knowing where to draw the line
on a hard day, pieces coming together
on a hard day, one of the people who comes to help is a familiar face
on a hard day, stopping at the grocery, running into friends not seen in a long time
on a hard day, the dough left rising far longer than it should still bakes up well – things are not a waste
the sound of cars in the driveway, long travels over for now
greetings
the sound of people settling in
house full
everything pressed into service – every room, sheet, towel, plate, appliance, lamp, …
the cue it’s time to read, toddler rubbing eyes – easy work, this
guitar case in living room, a 4-yr-old’s request that it be played
birdbath turned skating rink
angel being put on tree
a menu plan that serves us well so we aren’t preoccupied trying to remember what it was we were thinking of serving but can focus on people
little ones in jammies
singing of carols
creche assembled as Christmas story is read aloud
cookies and milk left out, the eyes of the children
the expression on Christmas morning faces, cookie plate empty
a child’s suggestion, after a good toy or two are opened, that we “go downstairs and play” – satisfied, no need to continue on
make ahead recipes
the never-empty sweets platter, pure decadence but just once a year
a child that loves fruit
surprises in all kinds of wrappings
continuous light snow
toys tried out, things assembled, games opened and played
smell of ham
visits to a shut-in, but just two by two, spaced over days, to make the special days special for her too, but not to overwhelm
soups simmering
church together
cousins holding hands from one row to another
naps, as needed, for everyone
we are not in a rush
Gingerbread houses on display downtown
Dad gets to ride again in the Holiday Lights bike ride
in a year I did no baking, an avalanche of fabulous baked goods on the counter
bittersweet goodbyes, having people to love enough that it’s hard to send them off
news of safe arrivals back home
one still bringing laundry home
nail painting, an excuse to sit still, not that one is needed
the ongoing conversation with friends on the journey
allowing ourselves 5 minutes to cruise the Pier 1 clearance racks, knowing we need nothing but putting ourselves out there to be lured in
savoring the leftovers
dozens of little conversations with little people over the course of a few days, snippets of their remarks floating in my head – completely delightful!
professionals pitching themselves so I don’t have to
a much-needed new appliance – a vacuum that is self-propelling, easier on the arms
getting over the hurdle and going out to a party, enjoying the people and conversations and….the overcoming enough to do it
testing thoughts that have been spinning by sharing them aloud for the first time
the words I was going to say replaced by other words that came into my head, better more helpful
whatever promotes healing
knowing what is not my role and staying out
soup recipes to try
new dish towels
in a big church that is not mine, surrounded by familiar and friendly faces, feeling like home
winter’s beauty
dismantling the tree and the general sweeping-out and arranging again the furniture, January sun streaming in
a procrastinated-upon letter written and sent off
the smell of paint in a spruced-up corridor
the comfort of consistency, storm being forecast, the grocery store mobbed – inconvenient, yes, but there is comfort in consistency
the first flakes falling on my face
an excellent read during lunch break
good background music as a companion to a day
preparing a labor-intensive appetizer for small group, looking forward to seeing everyone again after the break
new people in the dinner mix
Matt Chandler
winter snuggling
that a loved one with a burn has a doctor in the family only a mile away and he comes with his black bag – thank you
time to write and something to write about – nice when both happen at the same time
table linens full of memories (and maybe a few holes and frays), saved and used
new sneakers and the courage to toss the old ones, well-worn and a split across the sole (how easily I could have hung onto those “for just one more wearing”)
gentle snows as Friday evening falls
ham and eggs
3 overdue calls made on a day the cold keeps us inside
an extra blanket to give
extra layers to wear
help for hot spots: Organizing Junkie, Organizing Your Way and Becoming Minimalist.
a cold in a week that good for having a cold, too snowy and cold to go anywhere and no place I’m expected to speak
the character in Dancing Shoes that helps the girl needing to make a difficult transition
company coming
anticipating the carpenter’s call
courage to make an inquiry
hearing a song I like right away, the first time
files straightened out and in order
hot soup on cold day
someone recognizing herself in the post about minimizing – I’m glad I wrote it
time to send a quick thank-you note
being home
getting out
the art in some sweaters
smell of melting snow on pavement – what is it? Spring?
sharing a meal with friends
a blossom on a cactus I thought would not bloom this year
the lowly sock
yellow and amber light in winter
note sent
note received
his bringing the Honduras details home to me
someone to help when I am not 100%, timing excellent!
discovering old stories, captured in journals
a distinct sense of peace
a girl’s night out
a gift to give, ready under my nose, one I’ve held a long time, waiting for the right person
full moon on snow
sound of shovels in distance
snuggling
morning frost on dogwood branches, limbs looking crystal
the sledding hill, busy
red berries on winter bushes
sun bright January morning, people seeming happy to be out
changes made in last year, changes not always easy, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t right
a friend makes an important discovery
tire tracks in snow
little girls’ boots with pom-poms on the ends of laces
fur trimmed hoods
snow piled at driveway’s edge, driveway carved out like icing sculpted
newsy emails
happy visits
old movie, plenty of color and dancing
food experiments
first walk in a while, multiple layers on, squeak of snow under foot, warm enough to stop for a chat, pet a dog, continue on
trusting
someone sharing an important passage in a book, “Can I read this to you?” Yeah.
chips to share, game on
fresh lemon
driveways that wind and disappear up into the trees
snow falling across the tops of hills
news that a sick little boy is on the mend
him home
the ability to refrain from giving a quick comeback when it would not help
how seeing and seizing a different opp to speak out, and well, is more satisfying
the chance to be back to small group after being out sick
my chance conversation with Shirley
my 37-years-young mixing bowls
a haircut needed, gotten
harbingers of spring, songbirds
the GW dining services mgr
debriefing partner
just when a break in thought-swirl is needed, a friend appears
edelweiss seeds
kitchen project – seeing a vision take shape
a fabulous hat pattern
in advance of storm, awesome power in skies
my ODF sends a good writing prompt and I am energized by it
Friday night fun
Pancake Days hint at Spring drawing closer
on Super Bowl Sunday, people encouraged to wear their team wear to church – love it!
the putting away of the winter decor and digging out the spring things
a friend comes for coffee and we catch up
kitchen project begins, a momentous and memorable day
cake challenge, reminders of learning to bake
encouraging words
stories well-told and otherwise
news of granddaughter coming in June (rec’d 2/11/11)
lengthening daylight hours
waters choppy in February sun
frenzied gulls
duck picnic
the bug burly man, carrying roses and baby’s breath
surrounded by familiar faces
long walk
good talk
a reservation made, rather than holding off
treatment-free another two months
people calling and emaiing asking how the checkup went
cycling weather on tap again
learning a new Spanish word – abecedario (alphabet)
temps forecasted to be in 50′s
two college guys with their gloves, playing catch near campus
field turned over
first day out on bike this year
snow melted off driveway, young boy shooting baskets
appliance garage
a “someday” project, done – counter seating
new recipe to try
good advice rec’d (to write before reading the writing of others – preserves voice)
getting back on track after being off WW
shadows made by bright sun shining in
Care Group’s care – completely lovely
the right pan for the job
a spark of potato creativity in a pinch
not being a stranger
the fun of the more people
old Bing Crosby movie
Atlanta plans
Habbakuk – mark my words, man
napkin colors
looking forward to a conference I signed up for, hoping I’d be interested when the time came
people wearing soft spring colors
biscuits in freezer
soup when breezes turn cold again
a lovely movie line, “Once in her life every women should hear that said to her. I thank you for being the one who said it to me.”
seeing another side of a person
coming home
forsythia stems turning yellow
crossing paths with my friend, a bright moment in wearying day
chatting w/ neighbors
rain on roof
on a dreary day, the glow of a lamp in a window
creamed chicken and biscuits, doubled and shared
cheerful, chatty elderly man
young boy learning to speak words
Timbits box for sharing on a Friday morning
spring and summer colors seen midwinter, thank you cyberspace: http://annielul.blogspot.com/2011/02/out-for-walk.html
great leftovers
touching up the paint
paperwork done
time to do trim nails
when moving something an inch or two makes a big difference to someone
goodbye hugs for friend’s moving far, being able to say “We’ll be seeing you down there.”
sunny Sunday lunch in the park
fun at Cupcake Camp
evergreens punctuating a hill of deciduous trees
bold stand of evergreens on Rt. 50
spring road trips
waterfalls in later winter
rides through countryside
real conversation
2-1/2-year-old-speak, everything a “Why?”
bouncing Q’s off each other, sharing insights
learning about a new young writer
pretty girls in glasses
hearing someone’s ideas, sharing swatches
freshly washed cars
a shy look on a child’s face
the hardware store
a great loaf of bread on the day-old rack
a cooking plan in place all ingredients on hand
sunny day at the playground
news of baby born to a couple with a tremendous grief a year ago
Katherine Corneal
conversation overheard: mothers of toddlers negotiating the bounds of their comfort zones when it comes to distance from their toddlers: “If I reach my arm way out flat and I can’t feel him, he’s too far away.”
late winter runners, barely breaking for winter at all and those with fresh resolve, spring coming
the courage to recommit rather than give up
first jackets-off afternoon after a long winter
being given the secret entry code at the ER so I can have conversation needed and not be left standing out in the cold
funny visitors
warm and welcomed visitors
familiar faces
peace
a poem written in a hospital room ends up a keeper
every where I turn a good face to see, good words to receive, good hugs to get
calls well made
arrangements delivered – one at the front door, one at the side
sleeping without the cell phone on next to my head
needed words written
a planned getaway, perfectly timed
a stop at Pilot Mtn, after years of passing by saying, “One day I’m going to stop there.”
heading south – seeing daffodils, cherry, forsythia
reading others’ memories, reflecting on them
grass freshly mowed
T’s announcement!!
horse eating hay in sun
T on his push bike
“the boys” tossing a ball
every meal, a different novelty – fun! – and with excellent company
important conversation
safe travels
business goes smoothly, when what could be complicated turns out not to be
friend near, friend far - I cannot say I’ve been alone
everywhere I turn, taking care of loose ends, I run into familiar, friendly faces
moving forward on long-put-on-hold things
friends with expertise that makes up for my lack….and I make up for theirs
good advice from my plumber
when finding the contractor for the job turns out to be easier than expected
ooo….surprises, and not bad ones
a cough subsiding
good night’s sleep
spring wildflowers that laugh at the still chilly temps
freshly plowed fields
plotting improvements over coffee and a pastry
hashing out ideas with neighbors
looking forward to Sundays
the sun comes out
stepping out the door and shedding the jacket
a lazy bike ride
willow in spring
when the barking dog who chases me heeds my “you go lie down” and goes back to his yard
when a dull business meeting ends
a forgotten order of Girl Scout cookies comes in, replacing the stash depleted the week Ma died
a visit from little girls on scooters
foot races in the driveway – good sports all around
amber glow cast by a lamp on a wall of bookcases
two friendly dogs out on a romp through the neighborhood, saying hello to everyone
girl learning to ride bike
bed of periwinkles
two children calling across a field to me ‘hello’
knowing when to postpone a decision, being able to say “I need time to consider”
pretty plates, mismatched pieces
lush potted pansies on clearance rack, $1 ea.
swatch-talk with a decorator
a plumber who is practical
finding access to the pipes we are looking for
blogs that inspire and add to my day
friends, near and far - sharing burdens, celebrating joys
a real asked-ahead-of-time date!
people my age (old people) at the bicycle shop
when Annie takes her camera from Australia to NYC
a Lands’ End sale, plus free shipping – just when I needed a few things from them
Maricarmen
spirea stems in a glass
a new look at The Prodigal Son parable
Sunday afternoon bike ride, long, first wonderful weather
the tulips ready to open
an encouraging note received
an inconvenient appointment time suddenly gets changed
rains that give new gutters their first real try and prove them worthy
a 3-month reprieve
plans on calendar
freshly made bed
being able to picture a change before committing to it – having confidence in moving ahead
calendars that sync – less to carry in my head
good reports from obstetricians
hearing from someone I haven’t heard from in a long time
the season of no end of things to put in vases
tire tracks in dirt
a day with lots of movement – a walk and a bike ride AND some push mowing
redbud blooming
magnolia
he still opens the car door for me
old songs, new songs
the garden people laughed at
knowing people in front of me, next to me, behind me
Sylvi’s trees
the hairdresser’s idea
some decisions that were hanging, finally made
surprised by sun, a long outing on the bike
new podcasts
grasping el pretérito – hablé, hablaste, habló, hablamos, hablasteis, hablaron
I buy something I don’t end up returning.
rainy day doesn’t keep people from walking in the park, two umbrellas coming down the path
an old man and a dog that sticks close by him, does not need to be leased
an expanded garden made mostly out of things found in the yard already
violet sage growing in leaps and bounds
the chafing when being forced out of comfort zone in a good direction
an intimate setting created despite a great # of people
engagement news
special meal, special clothes on a special day
mushrooming stories
the indoor track
more of Sylvi’s trees
when the words I’ve been waiting for finally arrive
Easter!
dinner guests
pink flowering dogwood
one loose thread ties up and is done with
lunch with friend not seen in months
plans made
griddle cakes
refrigerator cleaned out
petting Spike and Miso
finding a new plant to try
when a pedestal planter costs less than I expected
festive cupcake liners
good news of recently moved friends settling in well
skirts that fit
slowly but surely a big project moves along – progress seen
enthusiasm to get jobs done – w/o it, tasks would be a drag
when the squad comes down the street and stops, Kelly’s suggestion
neighborhood sharing concern for our elderly neighbors
the yorkie with the pink bow in its hair at the garden center
getting to read/proof essay for someone’s seminary application
ham omelets
a friend at my kitchen counter
royal wedding music, reading, homily, prayer – all just lovely
steady rain – things sprouting overnight
the smell of fresh-cut grass coming through kitchen window
a surprise visit from a friend – such fun with the children, hearing what’s up with them all these days
a voice mail in Spanish
the blue of lobelia and amsonia
opp to check out wedding venues
a man who talks to birds
poet William Blake
good Qs to chew on
the man in the park with the remote control plane
a marvelous Mother’s Day
happy ultrasound report
PINK year in the garden – news of a 2nd granddaughter expected!
yards in spring
new recipe tried
celebrations that make a Monday special
azaleas in full bloom
getting to break good news
lunch plans
smell of a favorite soup on the stove, a favorite bread rising
bird choirs – there’s the morning one, the evening one and the middle-of-the-day mix
a new Spanish language partner lands in my lap
coming down the end of a project
bold step easily taken
friendly chats with neighbors
the much-feared trees….all down at last
endearing thoughts of Ma
Laura’s visit
rhododendron shopping
$1 bargains on the clearance rack in the plant dept
3 friends, all good thinkers and talkers, accept an invitation to visit
inspired to make homemade doughnuts and spinach-mushroom quiche
the sun comes out
a wonderful trim is found, not by my eyes, but that’s okay – I am fortunate to have good people helping me
break in the rain, a bike ride
plenty of leftovers in house, squeezing in the reading of a book chapter before dinner
a long-time-talked-about project finally finished
delights on the path of my Saturday errand-running
the baby in the nursery who stopped crying when I played with him
an enormous shrub trimmed back, mercilessly but for its own good
peace
the ability to express my thoughts
the ability to refrain from expressing my every thought
parades
fog lifting
getting outside early on a day that’s going to be hot
opps I feel like saying YES to
smell of cut hay
roses, peonies and honeysuckle competing for air time
reading just for fun
riding with open windows
holiday morning, empty intersections, free-for-all for bike-riders
the cats by the horse barns
many bikes tied onto an RV
a week off
plumber coming with fixtures, showers that work
back to writing again
freezer full, no need to cook
kids on their way to the pool, towels slung over shoulders
the richness of a transition times
mis consuegros
filling replaced, car serviced, AC’s annual check-up, haircut…though all these things feel like interruptions in my week, I’m glad to have them taken care of before a busy travel time
making snickerdoodles
tidying a garden
cool days after a string of very warm ones, a break
fun with Panko
fun with pink in the children’s department
honeysuckle hanging over everything
hitting 300 on my bike odometer for this year
knock-out roses
wax begonia and ivy, a reminder of a great visit
packing lists made
bikes everywhere – more people biking or just my imagination?
snickerdoodles
spirea branches moving with breeze out my kitchen window
the perfect resource for an article in the works
the Mennonite girl in the yellow-smocked dress
getting to attend Wordcamp Columbus – signed up in February
family reunion
safety over many miles of travel
lush hillsides
creeks through woods roadside
the GPS declaring the shortest route turns out to be off the multi-lane highways
the 4th – BBQ gatherings, good conversation
holding our breaths while waiting for baby news
Little Miss Pink arrives safe and sound
a delightful little boy with which to share several days and nights
discovering I’ve packed exactly right (against memories of times I haven’t!)
the surprise of a neighbor having mowed while we are away
wonderful Sundays, frought with lots of thought provokers and time to think
passing 400 on bike odometer
happy faces of sunflowers starting to bloom
watermelon
long views
yogurt in a tube
a happy tiredness, a tired happiness
a nostalic and bittersweet moment, watching someone fill out a slew of medical forms, happy for hte new life that makes it necessary, memories of the slews of forms filled out in recent years at various doctor’s offices for Mom
an opening to make an important trip that was put off until after baby arrived
necessary but potentially difficult conversations gone well
at day’s end, far from home, a comfortable chair on a deck in pleasant temperatures, a beautiful view and a book to get lost in, even if just a while
speaking engagement gone well
space to process
plants putting up with our being away so much
geraniums, after a rest, coming back stronger than ever
getting a response from a friend long withdrawn
the morning glories again this year gracing the pergola
early morning meet-up
an old young friend who gets right to the point
trips south where the crepe myrtle abounds
a boy who likes his new book and gets right into it
Superman at breakfast, Batman later in the day – costume stash getting a workout – also an imagination
preps for next baby coming, feeling next-expected baby moving
heart-to-heart talks
library books that can be renewed
when words by an author 50 years ago are the same thing I am feeling today
cosmos and tickseed coreopsis, swaying in breeze
electrician
renovation decision made and moved on
listening to tales of how the softball ‘badges of honor’ were won
trip to Athens, reading rather than riding, just not up to it, knowing it, going with it – a wise choice
Sunday morning chatting before church starts with various friends
bike odometer hits 500 – halfway to year’s goal! (July 31, 2011)
a season of softball unexpected
boys and men fishing together
spider plant taller than all else, laughing as I trim nearby evergreens
my new electrician, a treasure in personality and work habits
when it doesn’t matter what the house looks like, the company is so comfortable
a get-together I don’t feel quite up for turns about to be very relaxing, just what I needed
when something lost turns up – (reminder of Luke 15)
mowing for neighbor while he’s on vacation
iced coffee
undercabinet lights
seeing Ginny & Freddie venture all the way to the mailbox together
rain
finding the right words at a tense moment (can be like baking soda on a grease fire)
a rainy trail ride, sprinkles on face, mud splatters, soaked-to-the-skin fun!
intercambio outing in town, seeing the sights in two languages
rain that brings relief, tall stems bow
sage in birdbath
a mélange of roast vegetables fresh from gardens, easy and special
a newsy email
a chance to break away and focus on something important but pushed out by other things
2 cakes baked, 1-1/2 given away
Charity’s words
knitters in bakery
cyclists convening in town
woman with newspaper-wrapped bouquet
girl mincing cilantro
toad on flowerpot
the wild parrots
paper airplanes
walking around 1/2-the-day with a star on my forehead, placed by a child and forgotten by me before heading to town
Lincoln log houses
a boy’s display of basketball prowess
making cake pops with a child
hill walk
crossing thresholds, one person helping another across
flag folding
knowing my role
the words “And that’s the end of your story,” which I didn’t realize I was looking for until she said it
reprieves from grocery shopping upon finding the makings of a good meal on hand
curio cabinet full of memories
cooler temps, windows open, getting out the fall things to set about the house (2011)
big trip to Goodwill
success with corkboard project
right words at right time with no advance warning – maybe that’s best
a dark rainy morning, quiet
mastering new recipe
the celery and carrots
little glass treasures that trace years
a full Saturday on the Bikeway to precede a checkup
Rhode Island Reds on path
zinnias tall
chat with ODF
getting to see the expert
treatment plan in place
space to process
home
hearing back from a friend
food in the house
inspiration for an article right smack in the middle of an ordinary day
encouragement for an idea
a visit from a 12-wk-old Scottish Terrier
notice from library: requested item is in!
note in door
uniformed girls arriving home from school
incredible blushing of sedum
impressions: girl in rearview with interesting face that tells a story; motel clerk taking steps 2-at-a-time; men raking dirt, laying new lawn; dog running through park, heading home or away?; always a man there, his car, his folding chair, the paper, his dog
high school football, the whole town there
prepping for new grandbaby
a neighbor’s visit
resolution to a problem
Saturday bike rides
chance encounters
seconds at the farmer’s market
plans for next neighborhood potluck
petting five dogs in one day
chill in the air – soupmaking time
getting off the grid
fresh-washed clothes for the season that’s come on us quickly
parting with the old coffee table – the ability to stop hanging on to stuff
the waiting
the company of good thoughts on a long ride
Ma
Nora
mums that fit planters
mis consuegros
I am behind in responding to people, they are gracious about it
pushing aside excuses
from being on the road so much, finding scraps of paper in various places with entries for this journal – it’s not about building a list here, but having developed a habit…and the scraps of paper and pages in my Moleskin demonstrate it
RJ’s magic, a feat of engineering
clear skies, a roof done
trial begins
quick turnaround time
sleeping well away from home
early morning picnic at top of parking garage, great view
Ballard
Shavonda
friends who know without me telling them – Kelly and Shellie and Mark and Mike and Kim and Jennifer and Jeff
bumping into someone from the past unexpectedly, seeing it was timely
pizza party in clinical trial unit at day’s end
a rich time, when I stop fussing and just go
sunlight pouring through a friend’s kitchen window onto plants
a friend’s baby, smiling as though he knows me
sunny days in October, everything golden
burning bushes red
trees floating down river
ducks swimming in the cold, to seeming to mind
the workmen turning into young boys
zinnias and geraniums, toughing it out as fall moves along
homemade tomato soup and cornbread
riding the length of the Athens trail a 2nd time, enjoying it more
lovely Kim’s note
good catch-up conversations
fence-mending that goes well
grace at the neighborhood picnic
the grand-puppy that visits across the street
going up to the rehab to see Ginny & Freddie; his willingness to give me a good answer when I ask if there’s anything I can bring him next time – without hesitation he says “a chocolate milkshake”
going with it and the going being good
Ruby with Abel and Ahni
David Easter
two opps to sign up for things I enjoy
the first cup of coffee in the morning
wireless at the medical center
a stretch of the legs
students back
an idea cooking for 7 years almost done
when one story cuts in line in front of another and the timing is just right
half-circle of mums at Morrison’s
things going smoothly
“Emperor of All Maladies” on audiobook from library – only way I’m getitng through that giant – excellent
5 minutes with another writer
thoughts of someone finding a treasure in my castoffs sent to Goodwill
haircut that work when days are long and full
good discussions at Care Group/good book we are reading
Laura and Charity and Megan
the gentle souls coaxing the dog
the songfest
alyssum and daisies holding forth mid-November
friends come to breakfast
taking the turkey out of the freezer – counting down the days until they come – people to love, have here
riding and walking weather – the chill is the face
after a month at the rehab hospital elderly neighbors back home!
The Thanksgiving we couldn’t manage this year, happening
the roar of cousins playing
visit from old friend home for holiday
crumbs on counter
newborn tights left behind
bowling midday
leftovers
the hum of machines in the laundry room
belly laughs
reflection on the other shore
geese flying low over water
the bird on the back of the bench
roads for Matchbox cars made with painter’s tape on hardwood
soup on stove
when giving someone a ride to physical therapy ends with coffee and stories shared
news of a neighborhood gathering
surprise deliveries
an old friend stops in
stories shared around my kitchen counter
unexpected opportunity, courage to act on it
getting back into cooking
the amaryllis
making a point to get there for it, hearing the many voices
the rug
a meant-to-be trip that seemed a ridiculous idea at first and worked out great – magic, there
transformed spaces: homes into hospitals, of sorts, so one doesn’t have to be in the hospital; hospital rooms turned into dining rooms so one gets the feel of home again
apt words that calm fires (“a word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver”)
the leftover ham bone

Jan. 2012: File too big. I continue my Gratitude Journal off the blog.

10 thoughts on “1000 Gifts”

April | November 8, 2009 at 11:03 pm

Would you believe I JUST found this list? Great list. Made me laugh and cry.

Emily | December 2, 2009 at 11:02 pm

This is absolutely amazing! I am inspired and I see Eyob’s arrival in there. How beautiful! Thank you for being such a grateful woman for the small and big things in this life.

April | March 4, 2010 at 11:48 pm

You’re welcome for #664, I love that! I check your gratitude journal more often than I’d like to admit.

Suz | May 4, 2010 at 10:57 am

You might enjoy this site http://1000awesomethings.com

It reminded me of your Gratitude Journal.

#514 Seeing a license plate from really far away in your hometown

#516 Picking up something that turns out to be lighter than expected

April | May 4, 2010 at 10:01 pm

#884 – Did you go to Brooms Blooms? If so, I am insanely jealous!

Marilyn | May 4, 2010 at 10:29 pm

You mean #844? Yes indeed.

April | May 5, 2010 at 7:34 pm

Yes, 844. I sense that I’ll like 884 to.

April | June 29, 2010 at 9:05 pm

#1051, I thought that was funny when I read the AP story as well. As if being an avid gardner and a spy are mutually exclusive.

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Charlotte | October 24, 2011 at 12:36 pm

The last photo and caption……the most heartfelt.

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1000 Gifts

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