Sustenance

Seeing the riot of autumn leaves lining Franklin Street while running an errand this afternoon. Gold, scarlet, sunflower, burgundy, emerald, bronze, and russet — all set against the low clouds of a dark-grey sky.
Receiving a bowl of spicy red-lentil curry studded with cauliflower, carrots, potatoes, and green beans from my generous husband, who’d spent two [...]

Small moments

My four-year-old niece sent me her first e-mail (with help from my sister). Red and purple are her favorite colors, and she likes the “my little ponies” named Wisteria and Rainbow Dash.
The wasp that was flying precariously close to my head finally climbed onto a piece of paper and let me take her outside.
Basho’s poem [...]

People I miss

My grandfather, who helped raise me until I was two. He used to make me laugh by saying “Holy mackerel, kingfish!” over and over again, eyebrows waggling. I’m grateful I had the opportunity to speak with him just before he died two weeks ago and say “I love you” over and over again, one last [...]

Places I loved today

My workplace, which allows authenticity (and crying jags).
A small spot in front of a church near my office, where blue morning glories steadfastly climb a chain-link fence.
The weather-worn bench that supports me as I eat my lunch.

Saying thanks this evening

for the delicious, simple meal we ate three hours ago;
for the white zinnias and volunteers with fuzzy purple petals — from a garden I’ve left largely unattended this year — which are now arranged in a tiny blue vase;
for the crickets singing to me through the open window.