Ketchup

It's been quite a while since I last posted. Whenever people ask what I've been doing, I always say, "Nothing much." That's not true, of course.

There's the full-time job at FedEx Kinko's (now FedEx Office). And the part-time graphic design business. There's the house, of course, and bills and shopping. We re-sided the front of the house, and installed a largish new window. A weekend at the Coast with my sister; a dinner out with my husband and son. The mundane, ordinary events of a private life; not compelling to non-participants, a bit of a yawner even to me.

There's a poem I like by Baron Wormser called "A Quiet Life." It points out all the things that go into a quiet life, and they are myriad. Often when I am in the act of praise, I express thanks for "seasonable weather," a blessing too many people have missed. Or for "useful work, and willing and able hands to do it." These basic things are often only appreciated when lost. I try to be mindful of them now, while I have them.

Goodness knows they can evaporate pretty quickly.

Outside our snug four walls (even snugger with the new siding!), there is all the turmoil and furor of the end days of a presidential election. There is traffic and construction, crime and even more vicious punishment. There is also joy, color, life, energy, hope, helpfulness, caring and charity.

There was a time when I exulted in the conflict and excitement, and longed and strove to move and shake. Now? Ah, the quiet life, that's for me; simple pleasures of a tasty meal, a warm room, a loving companion, a captivating book or movie shared and discussed.

Winter approaches;
I draw inward with contentment.
We'll paint the house in spring.