As I begin writing these words today, I am aware that this quiet Sunday isalready the third Sunday of 2021. The time just flies by. Even the presentrestrictions keeping us close to home cannot stop the calendar from moving.I contemplate the landscape showing off its seasonal beauty. The mourningdoves are silent, a lone rooster crows … Continue reading We Will Celebrate in Person Again
Category: Self-improvement
Turn Off the News and Nurture a Plant
Dear Friends, I begin writing on this day observing the breezes of the morning as they orchestrate the swaying of the branches on the trees. I watch the odd leaf dance its way gently to the ground. I listen for the almost-imperceptible singing of the birds as they circle around. The reminder is to stretch, move and greet … Continue reading Turn Off the News and Nurture a Plant
Health and Community in 2021
Dear Friends, I send you all my warmest regards on this first Sunday of 2021! As I look at the horizon I am filled with a tremendous sense of peace and calm, grateful for all the blessings in my life and looking forward to a year in which I can continue to maintain and improve my … Continue reading Health and Community in 2021
Lessons From a Succulent Plant
Dear Friends, Greetings on this lovely, mildly-breezy last Sunday of 2020. Most of us have celebrated the different holidays with small, private gatherings that only included our social bubbles. In doing so, we have acted responsibly and this will hopefully allow us to celebrate more fully next year. Breathe deeply and treat yourself to some … Continue reading Lessons From a Succulent Plant
Annual Traditions
Dear Friends, The morning that greets me is cool and breezy. From where I sit, I can see a variety of trees, their branches swaying to the rhythm of the music that is coming from the nearby church. From what I can hear, the service is live.The pastor's message is confidently directing the congregation to … Continue reading Annual Traditions
A New Way to Celebrate
Dear Friends, The December breezes are calm right now as I step into a morning that is sunny and holds the promise of a good day ahead. The astonishing beauty of the rural landscape infuses my soul with optimism and energy, gifts that allow me to feel deep gratitude for everything in my life, even the restrictions … Continue reading A New Way to Celebrate
Celebrating Small, Good Things
Dear Friends, Before me lies a lovely landscape. The bright sunlight warms the terrace tiles. I witness the birds flying through the air to capture the insects that serve as their breakfast! I gaze at the hillside, still green from the recent rains that are also replenishing the water table to guarantee the precious liquid through … Continue reading Celebrating Small, Good Things
A Different Thanksgiving Day
Dear Friends, The singing from a local congregation nearby interrupts the stillness of this quiet Sunday morning. Current conditions have generated changes in our social interactions and I must admit that hearing this singing after so many months without it has been largely positive and comforting. For our physical and mental health, we have adopted … Continue reading A Different Thanksgiving Day
Mid-November Thoughts
Dear Friends, I greet you on this Sunday from a mildly-chilly Atenas. Despite that, the sun is out, the birds are singing and I feel blessed to be able to live another day. In these Covid-19 times, when we might feel exhausted and confused, it is important to express gratitude for all of Nature's gifts. If … Continue reading Mid-November Thoughts
Prolonged Hibernation
Dear Friends, The weekend forecast, predicting more rain for today, has eased up for a bit. The curtain of clouds opens sporadically and allows the sun to peek through, reaching and warming my shoulders through the sweater I have had to wear in normally hot Atenas. I smile when I look at my garden below where … Continue reading Prolonged Hibernation