my grateful journal

T turns 15

2011-12-18T16:30:00.000-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am so thankful for T as we celebrate his 15th birthday.

Yes, T is still with us.

After T's leg surgery in June, S and I weren't optimistic that he would make it to age 15. But he did.

At age 15, T can't hear very well and has lost his once very keen sense of smell. An arthritic right hip keeps him from exploring the neighborhood along favorite dirt trails, yet he is perfectly content to walk around the park twice a day with S. He still eats well, poops regularly and, to our delight, occasionally acts like "young" T.

Happy birthday to our most precious fellow. Despite what others may claim, you are the indisputable best doggie in the whole Universe, the best dog that ever lived. We love you so much.

T - still as handsome as ever at 15

No longer able to join us on hikes or our climbing adventures, T is quite content to be an indoor dog.
This lovely winter afternoon, despite sunny skies and warm temperatures, he prefers to do what he does best.


A final walk along the mountain road with S - Thanksgiving 2011.

For this most extraordinary blessing, I am very grateful.

Amen.

Summer colors

2011-08-06T15:50:00.000-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for summer colors.

The summer blooming season is in full swing. Like a color-happy artist, my garden paints my miniscule corner of the Earth with hues that reflect many moods: cool and warm, muted and intense.

Please don't ask me to name my favorite.

For this blessing, I am thankful.

Amen.

Morning light

2011-08-06T15:05:00.000-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for morning light.

On workdays, T usually rouses me around 4:30 AM when he gets up to reposition himself on his sleeping blanket. My clock is set for a 5:05 AM wake-up call, so for the next half-hour, I lie in bed anticipating the alarm's "ding-ding-ding". In other words, T goes back to sleep while I hover in a half-asleep/half-awake state.

Occasionally, I give in and just get up. An early start never hurts even though I've slept for less than 6 hours.

Last Thursday morning was such an occasion. I arose earlier than normal and happily spent some of the extra time in my backyard garden.

The sun's rays barely cleared the fence top. The soft light fell gently across different plants, creating interesting flower portraits. Fortunately, I had my camera with me. Here are three of my favorite photos from that morning's shoot.

This sunflower faces east, catching a few rays of early morning sunlight.

The early morning light illuminates this Cleome. Blodgett Peak towers in the background

Cleome stand tall in front of the old cedar fence. The string bean-like structures are seed pods

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

T's Healed Leg

2011-07-31T19:02:00.001-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for T's healed leg.

S and I removed the bandage from T's right foreleg. Except for a few small red spots along the incision scar, the site is healed.

T, sans bandage, does what he does best - taking a long, quiet nap on a hot summer afternoon in Colorado.

For this blessing, I am very grateful.

Amen.

My dad and my gardens

2011-07-19T22:05:00.002-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for my dad and my gardens.

If he had lived, Dad would be celebrating his 86th birthday today. Instead, over year after his death, I am honoring him in my own, very private way, in my garden.

I spent the weekend tidying my backyard garden - just in case Dad was curious and checked in to see what's blooming. Despite the 90 degree-plus temperatures, I spent several hours weeding, pruning, thinning, deadheading, mulching and watering.

Just in case, of course.

I hope Dad was happy that at least one of his five daughters (me) inherited his gardening genes and became a rather accomplished gardener. He never said a thing to me about my endeavors. Still, I'm sure he was proud of me, especially since I garden in a very challenging environment - the arid, high plains of the Colorado Front Range.

So, in celebration of Dad's 86th birthday, I'm inviting you to take a short walk in my gardens. Warning: the plants are not as green and lush as the ones he grew in Southern California.

Most of mine are xeric: drought-resistant or drought-tolerant. Many are Colorado natives. Lots are deer- and rabbit-resistant. Some are edible. All are lovely.

Backyard garden - looking west

Backyard garden - along the north fence

Backyard garden - another view looking west

Backyard garden - looking towards the northeast corner

Backyard garden - another view looking towards the northeast corner

Backyard garden - north fence

Backyard garden - north fence, close-in view

Backyard garden - shadier section along the house

Front Yard

A daisy for your thoughts, Dad ... Happy Birthday ... we miss you.

For these blessings, I am very grateful.

Amen.

A sleeping dog

2011-07-03T16:30:00.001-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a sleeping dog.

T's recovery from surgery has been an ordeal for all of us. S and I, however, can rationalize the experience and manage our emotions, reactions and responsibilities.

Not so for T. He just doesn't understand. The worst part is the every-two-day visit to the "veg" for the bandage change. T's worst nightmare = any visit to the veg.

When T returns home, he is quite agitated and won't lie down to rest. Naturally, his behavior makes S and I nervous, testing the limits of our patience. Fortunately, the incision is healing and T has full use of the foreleg.

After this morning's visit to the veg, T finally settles down.

A sleeping dog = a few hours of peace and quiet for his human parents.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Le Tour de France

2011-07-02T20:30:00.002-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for Le Tour de France.

While not as imposing as a glorious field of French sunflowers, this single first-of-the-summer Gaillardia (blanket flower) shows off its favorite Tour colors. It bloomed this morning, just in time for the Tour's opening stage. Its bright yellow petals honor the coveted yellow jersey.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

A touch of orange

2011-07-02T17:40:00.002-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a touch of orange.

Orange is one color I do not wear - the warm, sun-kissed citrus hue just doesn't flatter my classic winter coloring (or rather, I do not do justice to orange). Occasionally, I'll wear a top with deep coral or peach, but never, ever pure orange.

My garden, however, doesn't care about my preferences. It can wear any color regardless of the season. So this morning, orange it is.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

A "from the top" perspective

2011-06-29T08:45:00.003-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a "from the top" perspective.

A "from the top" view helps me capture unusual images of my garden.

I'm looking straight down on these perennials and love what I see.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Single blooms

2011-06-28T15:10:00.001-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for single blooms.

Large floral bouquets usually catch my eye when I survey my garden. This afternoon, however, single blooms are the celebrities du jour.

Here are portraits of some of the loveliest "stars."

For these blessings, I am grateful.

Amen.

Garden visitors

2011-06-26T00:56:00.001-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for garden visitors.

A pair of tiny, yellow-chested birds (finches?) frolics in one of many cat mint bushes. I think this is a couple - the more intensely colored male is at the top.

Birds, bees, butterflies. Daily, my summer gardens welcome them all.

(Note: To date, no visiting bee has stung me. I think bees know better than to annoy the gardener.)

For these blessings, I am thankful.

Amen.

A small but perfect harvest

2011-06-25T14:00:00.000-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a small but perfect summer harvest.

To my delight, the Swiss Chard plants in my edible garden are growing quickly. Each evening, I pick a large handful of leaves for my dinner salad or stir fry.

The rhubarb looks ready to harvest - will have just enough for a pie, a crumble or jam.

Finally, we're ready for homemade Mojitos thanks to a bounty of sweet mint and endless batches of my special fresh herb-rich marinara sauce thanks to the thriving rosemary, oregano, sage, tarragon, thyme and lovage.

Top to bottom: mint, rosemary, lovage, sage

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

T's Recovery

2011-06-25T13:30:00.002-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for T's recovery.

He made it through Wednesday's surgery and two annoyingly restless nights (well, annoying to me).

T post-surgery - finally falls asleep after the ordeal

This morning, the veg examined the wound and changed the dressing. So far, so good.

The best news for T, our furniture and us: As long as he leaves his bandaged leg alone, T does not have to wear the dreaded Elizabethan collar.

T sleeps with new bandage, sans Elizabethan collar

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

My favorite gardening companion

2011-06-20T05:34:00.011-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for my favorite gardening companion.

T at 14.5 years

On his best days, T hobbles around the backyard, favoring his right hind leg. His arthritic hips hinder his mobility. He no longer races along the fence line or fetches a favorite toy or reacts to a teasing squirrel. Not that he doesn't want to. He just can't, and he knows it.

While I tend my gardens, he no longer follows me around the yard. Instead, he stands on the patio and watches from afar. More like the lord of the manor than my supervisor.

T turned 14.5 years old on Saturday. Elderly by Labrador Retriever and human standards. he still walks with S twice a day - usually two very slow laps around the park with an occasional journey along the trail, alley or main road. T has walked around that darn park tens of thousands of times.

The owner of the pet food store always reminds me that T's longevity is a testament to our love for him. Only the best for T, I always say. The best food, the purest water, the finest treats, the softest blankets, the most hugs.

T's longevity also means that he is susceptible to old age infirmities. Last week, at his annual exam, we learned that the "cyst" on his foreleg is a sarcoma. The "veg" (our term for veterinarian) assured us that T is strong enough for surgery, so we scheduled the procedure for this Wednesday, June 22. If you like or even love T, please pray for him, the surgical team and us.

For this very special blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

My dad

2011-06-19T04:22:00.001-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for my dad.

To live in hearts we leave behind
Is not to die.
~Thomas Cambell, Hallowed Ground

My second Father's Day without Dad. Last year's remembrance was especially difficult - he died on May 15 so my grief was fresh and familiar.

This year, I'm doing better. I think about him daily - good thoughts - especially while I'm tending my gardens. The special place in my heart reserved just for Dad-things, however, is still quiet and sad, awaiting just one more happy memory.

Happy Father's Day, Dad.

Liatris in full bloom

For this blessing, I am thankful.

Amen.

A blooming garden

2011-06-13T17:20:00.004-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a blooming garden.

Surprise!

My gardens are abloom. Nearly all the perennials survived our cold, very arid winter.

I'm not sure my dad would have enjoyed my eclectic, drought tolerant garden.

My friend, Elsie, however, would have been delighted.

Edible & Perennial Garden

North Garden

North Garden - shady section near house

North Garden - fence corner

Blue Flax

Saponaria

Comfrey

Columbine - white

Verbena

Snow in Summer

Lilac

Mat Daisies (closed buds)


Liatris

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

A really good sale

2011-06-04T17:03:00.007-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a really good sale.

As you may know, I am trying to "fast" clothes buying this year. So far, in 2011, I have spent less than $25 on clothes (an all-time low for me).

Today, however, I stopped by one of my favorite thrift/consignment stores where the selection in small and extra-small sizes is usually quite good. I ended up buying a few things at bargain prices:

1 Banana Republic long sleeve cotton blouse $.75
1 pair of new Worthington grey trousers for work $2.00
1 pair of new Fabrizio Gianni black stretch capris $1.37
1 Sara Arizona black rayon cardigan $2.00
1 black camisole - $.75

Now I have to get rid of 5 items from my closet. You know the rule: buy one item, give one away.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

A good night's sleep

2011-06-03T23:31:00.001-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a good night's sleep.

Most days, I operate in sleep-deficit mode.

Occasionally, I get a good night's sleep. I define this rare phenomenon as follows: duration exceeds 5 hours of uninterrupted slumber; I wake up naturally.

Perhaps tonight is the night.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Elsie, 1933-2011

2011-06-02T22:42:00.001-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for Elsie, 1933-2011.

From an aunt, long ago:

"Death has come for me many times

but finds me always in my lovely garden

and leaves me there, I think,

as an excuse to return."

~Robert Brault

Elsie - writer, teacher, philosopher, historian and gardener extraordinaire - died unexpectedly on May 15. The annual Horticultural Art Society plant sale for which Elsie managed several key functions, also ended that afternoon. She wasn't there, however. The June HAS newsletter reported that she did not feel well on Saturday and left the sale early to go home and rest. She died the next day.

I didn't volunteer for the plant sale this year, although Elsie called and asked me to do so. I just didn't have the time or energy for this extracurricular activity. I regret that I did not return her call.

Elsie's death caught me completely by surprise. I missed the announcement, missed her funeral, missed saying good-bye. I know the plant sale volunteers will miss her at this year's celebration picnic. Picnic early birds could enjoy a small glass of her fresh strawberry or peach daiquiri, spiked, of course, with a splash of white rum.

Elsie encouraged me to be adventurous with my plant selections and inspired my small but interesting perennial edible garden. She was a tireless and generous resource for horticultural information. Now, we will no longer be able to say, "Ask Elsie."

My dad died last year on May 15. Now, sadly, Elsie's name joins his on my calendar.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Warm dirt

2011-06-01T19:30:00.019-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for warm dirt.

Friends in San Juan Capistrano are already enjoying a bountiful harvest of homegrown tomatoes. To date, I haven't planted a single vegetable which means I am way behind in Southern California time but right on time in Colorado Springs.

I bought one cherry tomato plant. That's it for this year - I promise. I don't know when I'll plant it. The Master Gardener at the nursery reminded me not to do so until the nighttime temperature is consistently above 40 degrees. Tomatoes need warm dirt. At nearly 7,000 feet in altitude, we're not quite there. Maybe in a week, or two I'll have warm dirt. If not, I will forget about tomatoes this year and indulge in organics and heirlooms at the Farmer's Market - much easier but less fun.

Next weekend, I will finally get to plant eggplant and my all-time favorite Swiss Chard in the garden plot. In pots, I will transplant Globe basil and hot peppers. I now wish I had bought the beets - love the greens in salad. I will look for more Japanese eggplant, hot peppers and herbs, and maybe one zucchini.

And, in case you're wondering, here's what's already growing in my edible garden:

Nearly ready for harvesting:

Rhubarb

Already harvesting:

Chives

Tarragon - my "secret" ingredient in pasta sauces, delicious raw in salads

Sage

Lovage (has a mild celery taste - easy to grow - hosts swallowtail larvae)
Mint (for homemade Mojitos)
Thyme
Rosemary - grown in pots, over-wintered indoors
Oregano - grown in a pot, over-wintered indoors

Other:

Jerusalem artichokes - perennials, have never harvested (keep forgetting - don't ask why)
Shallots - forgot to harvest last two years; planted more this year

For these blessings, I am grateful.

Amen.

The Finch Family - 2011

2011-05-31T20:40:00.000-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for the Finch Family - 2011.

The year's at the spring
And day's at the morn;
Morning's at seven;
The hillside's dew-pearled;
The lark's on the wing;
The snail's on the thorn;
God's in His heaven -
All's right with the world!
~Robert Browning

It's been a few years since S and I hosted avian tenants who successfully raised a family.

Several weeks ago, a young Finch couple built its nest in the Christmas wreath that hangs on our front door - a near-perfect spot to raise a family. The tiny mother laid her eggs, then hunkered down, enduring a few weeks of unseasonably cold, wet weather.

As is our practice, once a bird couple builds its nest in the wreath, neither S nor I use the front door. T did not understand, at first, but soon mastered the routine. The "new" way to the front yard, neighborhood and park is through the garage.

The eggs hatched about 2.5 weeks ago. Last week, the babies were downy balls with no discernible features. Today, the fledglings have real feathers and adorable faces. The one in front seems to be scowling at me - didn't want a nosy landlord to take its picture.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

A quiet birthday

2011-03-15T22:06:00.107-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a quiet birthday #57.

It's been a tough year, personally, especially with my dad's death 10 months ago and T's declining health. Despite my daily struggles, I am still here, writing, working hard, climbing well, cooking interesting dishes, planning this year's garden and trying to make another small dent in the Universe. I know that I am well past my half-life, unless, of course, I live to 114.

I'm on vacation today and celebrate my birthday in small ways - it's inappropriate to call attention to myself especially with everything that's going on in the world. A chilly morning walk in the park with T (one very, very slow lap), a haircut, a birthday card from my work colleagues with a really nice note from our CEO, a new tube of Gabrielle black mascara and a hard but exhilarating training session with S at the climbing gym. I wish I were in France but will settle with chatting with Fasten, the delightful foreign-exchange student from Paris who is on the gym's high school climbing team.

All in all, a quiet but favorable start to my 58th year.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

A remembrance

2011-03-13T16:20:00.001-06:00

Dear God:

Today I am thankful for a remembrance.

I last saw my dad exactly one year ago. I returned to Manhattan Beach for my parent's 60th wedding anniversary celebration at Matisse restaurant.

I remember a lot of things about that evening - what I wore, what we ate, who attended - that Mom and Dad were happy to see me. Most importantly, I remember, that for whatever reason, I had the privilege of sitting next to Dad during dinner.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

A timely gift

2011-02-09T19:49:00.000-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a timely gift.

A bitter cold morning with sub-zero temperatures, again. Arctic cold fronts just love to settle along the Front Range. To top things off, I had a really bad morning at work and just couldn't shake off the negative energy and offense.

Fortunately, my guardian angel made sure that this oft cited quote from Dean Koontz found its way to me.

Not one day in anyone’s life is an uneventful day, no day without profound meaning, no matter how dull and boring it might seem, no matter whether you are a seamstress or a queen, a shoeshine boy, or a movie star, a renowned philosopher or a Down’s-syndrome child. Because in every day of your life, there are opportunities to perform little kindnesses for others, both by conscious acts of will and unconscious example. Each smallest act of kindness—even just words of hope when they are needed, the remembrance of a birthday, a compliment that engenders a smile—reverberates across great distances and spans of time, affecting lives unknown to the one whose generous spirit was the source of this good echo, because kindness is passed on and grows each time it’s passed, until a simple courtesy becomes an act of selfless courage years later and far away.

Likewise, each small meanness, each thoughtless expression of hatred, each envious and bitter act, regardless of how petty, can inspire others, and is therefore the seed that ultimately produces evil fruit, poisoning people whom you have never met and never will.

All human lives are so profoundly and intricately entwined—those dead, those living, those generations yet to come—that the fate of all is the fate of each, and the hope of humanity rests in every heart and in every pair of hands.

Therefore, after every failure, we are obliged to strive again for success, and when faced with the end of one thing, we must build something new and better in the ashes, just as from pain and grief, we must weave hope, for each of us is a thread critical to the strength—to the very survival of the human tapestry.

Every hour in every life contains such often-unrecognized potential to affect the world that the great days and thrilling possibilities are combined always in this momentous day.

~Dean Koontz in From the Corner of His Eye

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

The power of one

2011-01-11T21:09:00.003-07:00

Dear God:

Today, 1.11.11, I am thankful for the power of one.

The Power of One is not just one of my all-time favorite movies, it's also something in which I believe.

One person
One lesson
One prayer
One snowflake
One kiss
One song
One small step
One sip
One smile
One gift
One heart
One tree
One death
One poem
One dollar

can change a life,
inspire a journey,
transform the world, and
make an irreversible dent in the Universe.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Sore muscles

2011-01-03T19:43:00.000-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for tired muscles.

The good news. S and I climbed long and hard at the rock gym on Saturday and Sunday. Not bad for two boomers. Today, I am tired and a little stiff. Makes sense to take a break from strenuous exercise. I'm not completely off the hook - still have to stretch and work my abs.

The bad news. I don't get to climb and already miss the workout and our friends at the gym.

I'll be back on Wednesday, however, ready to master another section of the traverse and try a more difficult bouldering problem or sport climb.

Yes, my worst day of climbing always beats my best day at work.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Sunshine

2011-01-02T13:24:00.000-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for sunshine.

The recent Arctic front was an unwelcome new year's guest with its bone-chilling cold days, sub-zero nighttime temperatures and icy roads. Brrrr. So, so cold.

This morning, the sun's warmth is a true gift. The thermometer reads a chilly 28 degrees F, but it feels like a balmy late spring day. Look Mom, no jacket!

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

A new year

2011-01-01T12:49:00.002-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a new year.

For last year's words belong to last year's language
And next year's words await another voice.
And to make an end is to make a beginning.
~T.S. Eliot, Little Gidding

One resolution I have made, and try to always to keep, is this: To rise above the little things.
~John Burroughs

This year, I resolve:

To be more generous than ever with my time, talents and resources
To rid my life of clutter and excess
To write and read more (i.e., to watch less television)
To improve my skills every time I climb or boulder
To be kind to everyone who crosses my path
To rise above the little things
To be grateful in all situations

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Important People

2010-12-31T22:01:00.006-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for important people.

New Year's eve is like every other night; there is no pause in the march of the universe, no breathless moment of silence among created things that the passage of another twelve months may be noted; and yet, no man has quite the same thoughts this evening that come with the coming of darkness on other nights. ~Hamilton Wright Mabie

As I peruse the list of "important" people who died this year, I realize that the media forgot some notable names. None are celebrities or athletes or billionaires. They are simply humans and canines who matter to people who matter to me:

My dad
My work colleague, Pete
Kathleen's mother
Cortney's grandmother
Judy's mother
Kelly's brother
Sage (Kathleen and Steve's beloved Australian Shepherd)
Greta (CS's beloved Weimaraner)
Ted Eastburn

The holidays just weren't the same without them.

For these blessings, I am grateful.

Amen.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T17:40:00.001-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for Christmas.

I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.

~Ebenezer Scrooge in Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol

I heard the bells on Christmas Day

Their old, familiar carols play,

And wild and sweet

The words repeat

Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

This Christmas Day, I pause to remember some of the good things in my life:

T is doing well.
S and I are healthy and able to climb several times a week.
I have a job, a wonderful manager and health insurance.
My cup runneth over a little bit which means I can give to others less fortunate than I. My cause in 2011 is hunger in our community. I wish I could give a lot more.
My sister, E, who, despite the distance between us, always remembers to include me in her life
Our "family" at the climbing gym - not just the owners but all the climbers we've met who care about us
Our Air Force Academy cadets who, as juniors and seniors, are now highly accomplished men in all areas of life.

Wishing everyone, everywhere a lovely holiday season. Merry Christmas!

For these blessings, I am very grateful.

Amen.

Happy Birthday, T

2010-12-18T15:05:00.000-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for T as he celebrates his 14th birthday. He is still a svelte 72 pounds who enjoys his daily walks in the neighborhood, snowy days and lots of treats. Always the lover boy, T remains very popular with all humans and younger canine buddies.

T on his 14th birthday

I think that this Navajo chant is T's daily prayer because he lives each day with such delight:

May it be delightful my house;
From my head may it be delightful;
To my feet may it be delightful;
Where I lie may it be delightful;
All above me may it be delightful;
All around me may it be delightful.
~Navajo chant

For this blessing, I am very, very grateful.

Amen.

Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T20:34:00.003-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful.

Thanksgiving comes to us out of the prehistoric dimness, universal to all ages and all faiths. At whatever straws we must grasp, there is always a time for gratitude and new beginnings.
~J. Robert Moskin

We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures. ~Thornton Wilder

Again, I find it very hard to embrace the holiday season with a joyful heart. It's been an exceedingly difficult year - too many personal losses and challenges. I'm surprised I made it this far without serious consequences. Fortunately, I have my health and, hopefully, enough time to finish my life's mission.

We spent a quiet Thanksgiving Day at home - the climbing gym was closed and it was far too cold to do anything outdoors except walk T around the park. At 11 AM, we listened to Arlo Guthrie's Alice's Restaurant on the local public radio station, a Colorado Springs tradition. I cooked a simple meal while S watched football and T napped. The day was tinged with sadness - S and I know that T's remaining time with us is very short. I hope he makes it to his 14th birthday on December 18.

For my many blessings, I am grateful.

Amen.

First Snow, Final Harvest

2010-11-10T21:00:00.000-07:00

Dear God:

Today I am thankful for our first snow and my garden's final harvest.

Winter arrived late yesterday afternoon. Finally, my colleagues and I sighed as we monitored the plunging temperature on Google weather. Yes, the nearly 80 degree F temperatures last weekend were divine but, alas, too good to be true. 28 degrees F. Now that's more like it.

And the snow. Swirling and whirling around people and cars and buildings and trees and scrub oak. Arriving just as the rush hour traffic peaked. Hours later, the storm finished her work. Her gift: over three inches of fresh ice and snow covering everything.

This evening, I check the Swiss chard that has been feeding me since June. Sadly, I realize that the hardy plants will freeze tonight, that it is time for my garden's final harvest.

The ceremony is very quick. I carefully cut the remaining leaves with my favorite shears. Then, I wash and roughly chop the leaves before adding them to the homemade vegetable soup that simmers on the stove.

This year's vegetable garden was my best ever. The Colorado weather cooperated, I fertilized the plants monthly and, most importantly, I didn't have the time or energy to fuss over the tomatoes. As a result, we enjoyed a delicious and healthy bounty of fresh organic food: cherry tomatoes, monster zucchini, Japanese eggplant, Swiss chard, strawberries, raspberries, Goji berries, cayenne peppers, jalapeno peppers and herbs (rosemary, oregano, basil, thyme, chives, tarragon, sage, mint, lovage and sorrel).

I think that Dad, an expert gardener in his own right, would have been proud of my results.

For these blessings, I am grateful.

Amen.

Halloween Visitors

2010-10-31T23:05:00.034-06:00

Dear God:

Today I am thankful for Halloween visitors.

In case you're keeping track:

This year's count: 11 young trick-or-treaters, one parent dressed as Tom Brady (the New England Patriot's quarterback) and several other parents not in costume. I bought goodies for 20.

My manager and her husband had nearly 350 visitors at their home. They eventually ran out of candy.

Finally, my team at work won the first annual Halloween decorating contest. The company is buying us lunch at the restaurant of our choice.

(Sadly, unlike past years, T did not run to the door whenever the door bell rang. He got up only once, when across-the-street neighbors, Bryson and his dad, stopped by.)

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

The power of ten

2010-10-10T16:31:00.002-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for the power of ten.

I am celebrating 10.10.10 with:

10 thoughts

It's already late Sunday afternoon - where did my weekend go?
Fall has finally arrived in Colorado Springs - the chill in the air says it all.
I am still harvesting jalapeno and cayenne peppers from what was my best vegetable garden to date.
T is sleeping, dreaming of the best days, the best moments of his life (I wonder if he will make it through the winter).
I miss my dad who died nearly 5 months ago. I think he would have loved my gardens this year.
A colleague died last weekend from cancer (very sad for all of us at the office - you could have heard a pin drop when the email arrived in our mailboxes).
This morning, I baked rich and buttery cranberry scones for breakfast and focaccio with fresh rosemary (to accompany the pork shoulder roast that cooked all night in the crock pot).
I need to assemble my cool weather wardrobe - time again for cozy sweaters, hand knit scarves, cashmere gloves and my favorite boots.
I wish I could live parts of my life over because I would do many things differently.
I'm glad that I'm a rock climber - rock climbing is much easier on the knees than my first love, long distance running.

10 dollars

My budget when I shop at the thrift store is $10.00. I usually visit on Saturdays when most items are half-price. My rule is that I only buy clothes from well-known brands like Banana Republic, J. Crew, Ann Taylor, Gap, Patagonia, North Face and Prana. I'm lucky that I wear small sizes - the "small" racks are rarely picked over. Yesterday, for $9.10 (tax included), I bought a lovely pale blue rayon blend cardigan (Ann Taylor, needs new buttons) and two pairs of black slacks in stretch fabrics (Ann Taylor and Talbots - modern, low waist fit, no alterations needed). My favorite finds in the past year include a Lands End coat for $7.50, a new pair of Prana climbing pants for $5.00, and the complete collection of Robert Frost poems for $1.50.

10 more minutes

This is what I ask for all day long - just 10 more minutes, please. Today, I am giving myself 10 more minutes. For all the times I needed them but was denied or couldn't find the extra time.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

My Dad: July 19, 1925 - May 15, 2010

2010-05-15T21:25:00.045-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for my dad.

My dad died this afternoon. He was 84 years old.

I last saw him in March when the family gathered in Manhattan Beach to celebrate his and Mom's 60th wedding anniversary. It was his most ardent desire to live to see March 18, 2010.

I don't know what else to write so I'll share the poem I wrote for him for Father's Day 2002.

I Am My Father's Daughter
For Dad on Father's Day 2002

My father is in me.
You see it, don't you?
The raw elements of
Strength, courage and purpose.
The black and white
Of right and wrong.
The "never say can't" attitude.

I wear them like skin,
Breathe them like air,
Drink them like water.
I cannot shake them off,
Or shed them,
Or wish them away.

His gifts to me
Are not seasonal or
Ruled by the tides.
See how he and I
Think the same way,
Act the same way,
Dream the same way.

All that I do
He does with me.
He is my watchman,
My protector,
Peering over my shoulder,
Stirring my conscience,
Knocking on my heart.

As I travel here and there
And accomplish this and that,
Others watch me.
They nod their heads and whisper,
"She is just like her dad."

They think I don't hear them,
But, I do.
And I smile.
For above all things,
I am my father's daughter.

For this blessing, I am eternally grateful.

I love you, Dad.

Amen.

Photo: Daffodils in the front yard garden. Here is a quintet - five lovely sunny yellow blooms representing five grieving daughters.

Wednesday, 17 March 2010 - Last days of winter

2010-03-17T19:53:00.000-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for the last days of winter.

It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade. ~Charles Dickens

Daily, my gardens remind me that it's time to prepare the plots for a new growing season. I vow to begin the chores only if the sun is shining and it's warm enough to break a sweat. And I don't mean a few hours of glorious weather on a Saturday morning followed by several days of freezing temperatures and wet snow.

I really want a lovely spring this year, maybe even an extraordinary one. Not for me, but for T and for my dad. I fear that Spring 2010 may be their last.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Tuesday, 16 March 2010 - Confessions

2010-03-16T20:48:00.000-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for confessions.

No more excuses coming from my tiny corner of the world. I no longer offer excuses for anything, only confessions ... as in:

I confess that:

I let life get in the way of my writing.
I let work get in the way of my writing.
I let doubt and fear get in the way of my writing.
I let writer's block get in the way of my writing.
I let television get in the way of my writing.

Please forgive me. I know what I have done, and I was wrong. I'm ready to wipe the slate clean and begin anew.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

15 March 2010 - Birthday Number 56

2010-03-15T20:31:00.000-06:00

Dear God:

Today I am thankful for one more year - number 56 to be exact.

My birthday.
Not a cause for jubilant celebration.
Rather, a time for quiet and intense reflection.
Past, present, future.
All three have great and grave importance when you're 50-something.

I dream, ponder and philosophize.
I learn, create and change.
I act, decide and progress.
I share, mentor and collaborate.
I work hard at building a small legacy of good works.

Be generous to a fault.
Follow the Golden Rule.
Be kind.

I know that I am well past the half-way point of my life, unless, of course, I live past the ripe old age of 112.

I'm not planning anything special. I have to work today. My colleagues who know about my birthday will whisper their good wishes. They know my preference for privacy.

No gifts, please. I think I already have most of the things on my wish list:

A husband and (canine) son who love me
Respect and love from my beloved niece and nephew
A sister who is also my best friend (too bad she lives in California)
An extended Colorado Springs family that includes kind and generous neighbors
Membership at the new climbing gym (S and I know the owners)
Hours to spend writing and reading (Charles Dickens and Jane Austen are on this year's list)
Longer days so I can take T for a walk when I come home from work
Visits from our Air Force cadet "sons" - they're juniors this year
Gardens and landscapes that crave my attention
Delicious cooking adventures that involve my favorite Le Creuset cookware

Happy Birthday to me. I think this is the year I will finish writing my book.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Sunday, 01 November 2009 - Eight trick-or-treaters.

2009-11-01T18:26:00.003-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for eight trick-or-treaters.

Last night, the number of costumed visitors to our house didn't reach double digits. We expected crowds between 7 and 8 PM. None appeared. Just after 9 PM, I blew out the candle in the pumpkin lantern and turned off the front porch light.

Despite S's generosity, (he gave out handfuls of miniature Hershey's candy bars), we have three unopened bags plus what's left in the bowl (lots, last time I looked).

How disappointing. I know that some of our neighbors went over-the-top decorating their porches and yards with scary and gruesome props. I wonder how many children actually made the rounds. Even T seemed disappointed that none of his human buddies rang the doorbell - most of them are now in high school and went to parties.

Still, eight trick-or-treaters made their way to our house. Each proudly wore a carefully thought-out costume and shouted "Trick or Treat" when S and T opened the door. S complimented each Storm Trooper, ghoul and princess on his or her costume. And, each child politely said "thank you." Halloween, after all, is about them, not us.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Saturday, October 31, 2009 - The end of the month

2009-10-31T16:42:00.007-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for the end of the month.

It's been one of those months - the ones that try one's patience and test one's endurance. S had three surgeries, winter storms ruined too many commutes to the office, the Swine Flu epidemic kept me at home on weekends (my apologies to the local shops I regularly frequent), my dad had neurosurgery, Halloween arrived with a vengeance at work, I received a Jury Duty summons ... Yes, just another October of record.

I don't want to repeat my October experience. I want to accomplish something of note. That's why I'm starting November with two important personal goals.

I will participate in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) and write a 50,000 word manuscript (this means almost no TV watching - sorry Project Runway).
I will be back in the climbing gym at least 3 times a week.

There. Let the new month begin.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Saturday, October 17, 2009 - Cool weather greens

2009-10-17T19:43:00.003-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for cool weather greens.

My vegetable garden still feeds me. The cool weather-loving chard, kale and beet greens continue to thrive. Tonight I added a small harvest to my tofu-Japanese eggplant-Anaheim chili stir fry with a very spicy black bean/red chili sauce. I served the dish over a mound of quinoa. Very yummy.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Friday, October 16, 2009 - A novel in waiting

2009-10-16T21:18:00.001-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a novel in waiting.

I am thinking about whether or not I will participate in November's National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo).

After "winning" in 2007, I skipped the event last year. Now, as November 1 quickly approaches, I am uncertain about my participation.

50,000 words. All written in one month. Conceive a novel then give the story life in 30 days. Can I do it again?

Somewhere in my imagination, a novel waits. It's storyline is clear and compelling, it's characters insightful and memorable. Perhaps this year, I will find it.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Thursday, October 15, 2009 - A community of rock climbers

2009-10-15T22:53:00.004-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a community of rock climbers.

The 2009 Reel Rock Film Tour came to town tonight, a big deal for the Colorado Springs climbing community. This year, the tour featured previews of two episodes of First Ascent: The Series, from National Geographic/Sender Films and the highly-anticipated, just released DVD, Progressions, from Big Up Productions. In Progressions, my climbing hero, American Chris Sharma, finally redpoints his Clark Mountain project, Jumbo Love (5.15b).

S and I attended with one of our Air Force Academy cadets. After Lacrosse practice, he rushed over to our house where we had pizza and orange juice waiting for him. We left on time and arrived at Colorado College's Armstrong Hall with time to spare (I'm a stickler for promptness).

As the crowd settled down, I looked around me, observing only a handful of baby boomers. No matter. For some reason, I didn't feel out of place sitting among a few hundred college kids. I actually felt that I belonged in the audience. After all, I am a rock climber and I support climbing events. And, despite my age, I laughed, groaned, cringed and applauded with everyone else as each film's story unfolded.

Many years ago, a man asked me to name the tribes to which I belonged. Only 30-something, I didn't really understand what he meant. I could only think of three "tribes": my birth family, my work colleagues and my neighbors.

Today - 20 years later - if he asked me the same question, I would answer with ease. I belong to many tribes - each one embracing an essential aspect of my identity. Of these, I am most proud of my affiliation with the tribe of writers and, of course, the tribe of rock climbers.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Wednesday, October 14, 2009 - A simple prayer

2009-10-14T19:52:00.004-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a simple prayer.

Watch, O Lord, with those who wake, or watch, or weep tonight,

and give your angels charge over those who sleep.

Tend your sick ones, O Lord Christ.

Rest your weary ones.

Bless your dying ones.

Soothe your suffering ones.

Pity your afflicted ones.

Shield your joyous ones.

And for all your love's sake.
Amen.
~Saint Augustine of Hippo

The prayer is a gift
from someone I do not know.
She whispers it in my ear.
Softly,
but loud enough
that my heart can hear each word
above the drip, drip, drip
of my tears.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Tuesday, October 13, 2009 - Anonymity

2009-10-13T21:32:00.001-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for anonymity.

For 364 out of 365 days of the year, I'm relieved that I've attained non-celebrity status in the world. I am no one to nearly every person now living. And, I like that. For the remaining 24 hours - divvied up over the course of the year - I crave just a teeny bit of notoriety. Maybe someone will notice me - just for a few minutes.

One of these days, I know that I will have my proverbial day in the sun. And, my writing will be the reason for my good fortune.

Over the past few months, I've been working on ideas for new writing projects. Very exciting stuff. I guess I'm fortunate that demands on my creativity are at an all time low at work. I'm free to devote my time, imagination and energy to writing my own stories.

But then again, does anybody care?

Oh, yeah. I forgot. You do.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Sunday, 07 June 2009 - Dirty fingernails

2009-06-07T19:16:00.001-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for dirty fingernails.

Dirty fingernails are proof that I worked in the garden for hours, planting nearly all the "treasures" I bought yesterday, weeding and mulching. They're also proof that I prepared meals for a week: homemade pasta sauce with garden fresh herbs for two pounds of linguine, two baking-sheet sized loaves of "perfect" focaccio (I've finally perfected my recipe and technique), two fresh fruit tarts a la Barefoot Contessa (pluot and apple/pear) and Greek coleslaw (my own recipe).

For this blessing, I am grateful .

Amen.

Saturday, 06 June 2009 - One more plant sale

2009-06-06T21:02:00.003-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for one more plant sale.

I visited the Horticultural Art Society's members only plant sale where plants leftover from the May sale are sold at cost plus sales tax. Since my gardens are already crowded, I planned to buy only a few plants - probably more edibles and herbs; maybe one large shrub.

Well, I walked away with over 3 dozen plants, nearly all tried and true favorites. The new inventory includes: Japanese greens, beets, chives, chard, chocolate mint, spearmint, red and yellow sun roses, chocolate flower, Munstead lavender, red Valerian, Reiters thyme ... and one large viburnum.

Sorry, checking account. I just couldn't resist.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Friday, 05 June 2009 - The sound of silence

2009-06-05T21:38:00.001-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for the sound of silence.

Honk if you hate noise pollution.
~Author Unknown, as seen on a bumper sticker

On my first day in my new office, I had trouble adjusting to the very quiet, very professional environment.

The warehouse from where I came was a very noisy place - forklifts beeping, conveyor belts humming, boxes/pallets thumping and bumping, people shouting. Noise was evidence that people were working.

On Monday, the silence was almost unnerving. Until I got used to it. Took a few hours, but I managed.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Thursday, 04 June 2009 - All creatures great and small

2009-06-04T20:44:00.000-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for all creatures great and small.

All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
All things wise and wonderful,
The Lord God made them all.

~Cecil Frances Humphreys Alexander

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Photos:
(top) During the winter, this hungry young buck visited my garden.
(bottom) T poses at the edge of the garden (late winter).

Wednesday, 03 June 2009 - Rites of spring

2009-06-03T20:28:00.000-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for rites of spring.

First the early season bulbs pose glamorously above the dreary brown mulch. Miniature iris, sunny daffodils, wild crocus smile despite the late snows and icy winds.

Then, the greens emerge - verdant shrubs, lawns, trees, fields, meadows and foothills show off their favorite shades.

Finally, other flowers step on center stage. Soloists and ensembles, alike. Each blossom ready to dance gracefully with the slightest breeze. They soothe my winter-weary soul with their quiet beauty.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Photo: Daffodils, front yard (May 10, 2009)

Tuesday, 02 June 2009 - All the gardening help I need

2009-06-02T21:27:00.005-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for all the gardening help I need.

Whoever makes a garden
Has never worked alone;
The rain has always found it,
The sun has always known,
The wind has blown across it
And helped to scatter seeds -
Whoever makes a garden
Has all the help he needs.
~Douglas Malloch

This spring, May showers brought May flowers. Now, June continues the wet and soppy and dreary trend - weather not necessarily favored by people but quite pleasant for my edible and perennial gardens. Perhaps this will be a banner year for the vegetables, herbs, shrubs and flowers.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Monday, 01 June 2009 - A new job

2009-06-01T21:35:00.002-06:00

Note: After several months of excuses, a prolonged bout of writer's block and feelings that I didn't have anything worth saying, I've decided to resume this blog. I welcome new and old readers alike.

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful a new job and its many challenges, adventures and rewards.

(Long story short, just after last Thanksgiving Day, I began working as a seasonal warehouse employee for a catalog company. To my surprise, in January, the company hired me as a regular associate with full benefits. A few weeks ago, a position opened up in the Merchandising Department. I submitted my resume on May 18 and interviewed the next morning. On Friday, May 22, I learned two things: that I got the promotion and that I was "Employee of the Month" for April. People who know me well were not surprised by my excitement about the former and embarrassment by the latter.)

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Friday, 23 January 2009 - Kind words, compliments

2009-01-23T19:43:00.001-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for kind words and compliments.

One kind word can warm three winter months. ~Japanese proverb

I can live for two months on a good compliment. ~Mark Twain

The business slowdown means that my team takes Thursday off. This morning, as we began another workday, I learned that Wednesday was both a hiring and firing day. Given the extremely tight job market, I feel sad for those who are gone and thankful that I'm still working.

Kind words: I'm surprised when employees on other teams congratulate me on my hiring. At work, I'm congenial but task-oriented. I tend to keep to myself, guarding my privacy.

Compliment: One person told me that the fact that the company hired me restored his faith in the hiring process.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Wednesday, 21 January 2009 - Work

2009-01-21T17:21:00.004-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for work.

To labor is to pray. ~Motto of the Benedictines

Things are looking up.

This afternoon, my work life shifted direction. After signing a single document, my status changed from seasonal to regular, benefit-eligible employee.

Now, my job is not a highly paid, responsibility-rich management position like the ones listed on my resume. But, that's okay. I'm still exploring the meaning of work. What better place to continue my exploration than near the bottom of the corporate food chain? From here, I have no place to move but up.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Tuesday, 20 January 2009 - President Barack Obama

2009-01-20T17:14:00.003-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for President Barack Obama.

The wonder is that, as we walk it, the path becomes clear. We have only to trust it into action, then truth reveals itself, shining all the brighter for the darkness of our time.
~Joanna Macy

On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord. ~President Barack Obama, inauguration speech, 20 January 2009

... let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested, we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.
~President Barack Obama, inauguration speech, 20 January 2009

Inauguration Day 2009.

I never thought today would arrive. But, here it is, in all its glory.

In Colorado Springs, we're enjoying an extraordinarily beautiful winter day. The bluest skies, springlike temperatures hovering in the low 60s, the slightest breeze. Too bad I have to go to work.

Fortunately, someone brought in a television. I see that the inauguration festivities are well under way.

Just after 10 AM MST, I pause at the television and watch Barack Obama take the oath of office. His voice is clear and steady. And confident, strong.

He finishes, to the utter delight of the massive crowd gathered in the National Mall. I turn to a colleague and give her the thumbs-up sign. She smiles and returns the sign.

It's time to celebrate - really celebrate - this historic event. Finally. We worked so hard to make it this far.

But, the inauguration is just the starting point of another journey. Tomorrow, our work rebuilding America begins anew.

And, yes. I am still fired up ... ready to go!

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Monday, 19 January 2009 - Encouraging and inspiring words

2009-01-19T22:40:00.003-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for encouraging and inspiring words from Martin Luther King, Jr.

On October 26, 1967, six months before his assassination, Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke to students at Barratt Junior High School in Philadelphia. The topic: developing a blueprint for one's life. Here is my favorite excerpt from his remarks:

And when you discover what you will be in your life, set out to do it as if God Almighty called you at this particular moment in history to do it. Don't just set out to do a good job. Set out to do such a good job that the living, the dead or the unborn couldn't do it any better.

If it falls your lot to be a street sweeper, sweep streets like Michelangelo painted pictures. Sweep streets like Beethoven composed music. Sweep streets like Leontyne Price sings before the Metropolitan Opera. Sweep streets like Shakespeare wrote poetry. Sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will have to pause and say: Here lived a great street sweeper who swept his job well.

If you can't be a pine at the top of the hill, be a shrub in the valley. Be be the best little shrub on the side of the hill. Be a bush if you can't be a tree. If you can't be a highway, just be a trail. If you can't be a sun, be a star. For it isn't by size that you win or fail. Be the best of whatever you are .

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Saturday, 10 January 2009 - Knitting goals

2009-01-10T10:38:00.001-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for knitting goals.

In 2008, I didn't knit anything worth mentioning, not even a chic scarf. I'm rather embarrassed by this result given my love of hand-knit garments and accessories.

This year, I plan to do better. I write this as I inventory my large yarn stash and put dozens of great patterns in queue.

So, here are my knitting goals:

~ to learn how to knit short rows (I found a ballet slipper pattern that uses short rows) and complex cables (I have a trendy sweater pattern with an interesting cable pattern)
~ to improve my garment finishing and assembly techniques (I really need help setting in sleeves)
~ to shop my stash before buying new yarn or patterns
~ to make at least one great looking winter sweater

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Friday, 09 January 2009 - Caution

2009-01-09T18:37:00.004-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for caution.

Better a thousand times careful than once dead. ~Proverb

The winter storm appeared from out of nowhere. Early morning was mild, clear and bright. With each passing hour, however, the temperature fell a few more degrees, the skies darkened one more shade of gray. Then, with one mighty blast of northerly wind, in came the blizzard.

After work, I rush to my car as wet snow pummels the area. I still have two errands to run before going home: trips to the bank and post office. The wind is so strong, the snow flies by in a horizontal path. As usual, I err on the side of caution, and go the speed limit. I don't care if others speed by me. I just want to get home safely.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Thursday, 08 January 2009 - Protection

2009-01-08T20:22:00.003-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for protection.

For He shall give His angels charge over you,
To keep you in all your ways.
In their hands they shall bear you up,
Lest you dash your foot against a stone.
Psalm 91: 11-12 (NKJV)

I am a Psalm 91 fan, reciting it daily as a prayer for me, S, T, my family, neighbors, friends, colleagues, acquaintances - anyone whose life I've touched. These days, uncertainty reigns and I can't take my personal well-being for granted.

Prayer helps, especially since life is taking so many of us on unpredictable roller coaster rides. I'm not scared, just extra careful and hopeful.

Daily, I ask for an extra layer of protection, just in case I fall awkwardly while climbing or stumble unexpectedly while trying to make a living.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Wednesday, 07 January 2009 - A clear head

2009-01-07T22:42:00.001-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a clear head.

My bout with the common cold, my first this century, is finally over. What a relief to breathe easily, lose that annoying, hacking cough and sleep soundly at night. I very rarely use OTC or prescription medications, preferring natural or homeopathic remedies. This time, however, I had to take a few to get me through work.

I'm well now - feeling 100% of my old self - and determined to stay healthy the rest of the year.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Tuesday, 06 January 2009 - Favor

2009-01-06T19:08:00.003-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for favor.

I pray daily for favor in all areas of my life. My fortunes often improve in tiny but significant ways. These days, I appreciate all the help that comes my way.

Case in point. My current job is a seasonal one so I expect to be let go any day now. I don't earn a high wage, but I enjoy the work and like my managers and colleagues. On several occasions, I've been granted small doses of favor.

For example, on New Year's Eve, I was the only seasonal employee asked to stay and work after lunch. This afternoon, four more seasonal employees on my team were terminated. Only three of us remain.

Yes, I shall live to work another day.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Monday, 05 January 2009 - A winter gift

2009-01-05T20:55:00.003-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a winter gift.

'Tis not the season
of the leaf whose
fragile body’s broken veins
disintegrate in
gusts of winds while
winter blows a frosty coat that
caps the barren land.
~Lucille Younger

I didn't ask for more wintry weather, preferring mild, dry days that invite rock climbing adventures. Mother Nature, however, sent me a generous helping of winter. She thought it a gift - the swirling, drifting snow; the bitter cold North wind; the frosty air; the single digit temperature.

I deemed it punishment. That is, until my trip home from work.

After turning left into the neighborhood, I observed several middle school boys having a ball playing in their well-constructed snow fort (I smiled and waved - to my surprise, they smiled and waved back). Then, further up the street, I spied a petite snowman with a bright orange plastic jack-o-lantern head (very, very funny).

Now I get it. No snow means no snow fort, no snowman.

To every thing, there is a season
And a time to every purpose under heaven ...
Ecclesiastes 3

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Sunday, 04 January 2009 - A snowy Sunday

2009-01-04T13:26:00.001-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a snowy Sunday.

Snow.

Nearly a foot of pure white powder sits quietly on the landscape with more falling every second.

It's been a while since I've experienced so much snow at home. I'm awed and filled with wonder. When I went to bed last night, a mere dusting decorated the yard.

I think of Robert Frost's famous poem ...

Whose woods these are I think I know.
His house is in the village though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.

T, thrilled to play with his snow buddies, escapes the house and dives joyfully into the icy froth. He dances and prances in the powder, showing off his best Labrador retriever snow moves.

Then, reality sets in. I begin thinking about the snow's inconvenience. In particular, the work required to clear the driveway and sidewalks later today. I also anticipate the drive to work early tomorrow morning. After all these years living in Colorado, I still hate driving on icy and snow-packed roads. I guess I will always be a Southern California girl.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Saturday, 03 January 2009 - NFL play-offs

2009-01-03T10:32:00.007-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for the NFL play-offs - finally!

Since my all-time favorite team, the Oakland Raiders, did not make the NFL playoffs - again - I'm supporting the Indianapolis Colts - again. So, if Peyton Manning and team don't win today, the NFL season is over for me.

Now, that doesn't mean I won't follow the other play-off games or the Super Bowl. S and T will most definitely watch the games regardless of the teams (S watches football for football's sake). It does mean, however, that I will do so without my signature passion and love-hate picks (as in, I hate the Denver Broncos and I love the Colts).

So, here's to the NFL and the guts and glory of football.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Friday, 02 January 2009 - Clean toys

2009-01-02T22:14:00.004-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for clean toys.

A new year's ritual.
Giving T's toys a bath.
Not his choice, of course.
T prefers that his treasures carry a certain Labrador retriever scent.
I'm the picky one. I'm the Mom, after all.

T's toys form one large pile on the carpet. Here's a quick inventory:

1 - large Lambie-doodle
1 - small Lambie-doodle
1 - Snoopy toy
1 - rope with Christmas colors
2 - chickens
1 - pheasant
1 - duck
1 - canvas football
1 - furry football
1 - loopy furry toy
1 - fur covered tennis ball with squirrel-like tail
1 - gorilla (one oversized tennis ball covered in black fur)

I think that's about it for this load. I also add T's padded fleece bed and favorite blanket.

About 90 minutes later, I remove the toys from the dryer and present them to T. He's not happy, warily sniffing the clean items, giving me his "what have you done to my things" look.

By the end of the day, things will be back to normal. T will have reclaimed his toys and forgiven me for my dastardly mother deed.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Thursday, 01 January 2009 - A new year

2009-01-01T17:18:00.001-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a new year.

2009.

A good year for everyone, I hope.

At least, let it be a fortunate one.

For each adventure, an easier, routine day.
For each difficult climb, a higher step up and longer reach.
For each challenge, a respite.
For each lost opportunity, a new dream.
For each cloudy day, a sun drenched morning.
For each impossibility, a miracle.

Yes I can.

For this blessing, I am truly grateful.

Amen.

Tuesday, 02 December 2008 - Grace

2008-12-02T20:59:00.000-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for grace.

A veil of grace. That is what covered me all day long. While trying to correct a workplace situation, doors opened and hearts softened. And, where I expected obstacles, none appeared.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Monday, 01 December 2008 - December prayers

2008-12-01T20:32:00.002-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for December prayers.

If prayers are going to answered at all, human beings probably have to answer them for each other. ~Margaret Lee Runbeck

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Sunday, 30 November 2008 - Warmth on cold winter days

2008-11-30T16:32:00.002-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for warmth on cold winter days.

Winter either bites with its teeth or lashes with its tail. ~Proverb

Winter is the season in which people try to keep the house as warm as it was in the summer, when they complained about the heat.
~Author unknown

I've been cold since Thanksgiving Day. That's the day winter settled in, nearly a month before its official December start.

I know the beginning of winter very well. This is my 22nd Colorado winter which means I can rightfully claim experience. Anyway, the signs are obvious - somber gray skies, bitter cold winds, snow flurries and an overworked furnace.

I greet winter's onset with my usual arsenal of edible remedies: pots of spicy homemade soup or stew, steaming mugs of ginger-laced green tea, drops of grapefruit seed extract in orange juice and hot toddies. I wear layers of high-tech, expedition weight clothing and drape Polarfleece blankets over my lap when I work at the computer or watch television. I dread getting out of bed in the morning.

Only T tolerates the cold. Actually, he prefers cooler weather. His dense oily coat is perfect for winter's sub-freezing temperatures. The North wind is his seasonal friend. Morning, afternoon and evening, T patrols his snow laden yard, investigating new scents with typical Labrador retriever delight.

I watch T from the kitchen window. Brrrrr. It's really cold outside. I take another sip of hot tea, feeling quite envious of his ability to stay warm.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Saturday, 29 November 2008 - Glimpses of heaven

2008-11-29T16:28:00.001-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for glimpses of heaven.

There are glimpses of heaven in every act, or thought, or word that raises us above ourselves. ~Arthur Stanley

Imagine that. Glimpses of heaven. Rare insights into the divine and holy nature of life and beyond.

Miracles occur daily when we do exactly what we're suppose to do for ourselves and for each other. No heroic deeds or deep pockets required. Just step up to the plate and swing at the next pitch with intention and passion. Nothing more, nothing less.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.,

Friday, 28 November 2008 - Giving and receiving

2008-11-28T18:51:00.003-07:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for giving and receiving.

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
~The Golden Rule (variation)

I don't buy anything on the day after Thanksgiving, honoring Black Friday boycotts. Who needs the nasty crowds, the annoyance or the stuff?

So, I'm speechless after learning that an early morning stampede of Wal-Mart shoppers killed one man and injured several others.

I wonder what heavily discounted item on aisle 15 was worth one man's life. None, in my book.

My thoughts are these:

+ On giving.
We battle feelings of inadequacy because, for the first time, many of us have little to give others but a smile, a hug and an encouraging word. My cup simply does not runneth over this year. Of course, by placing dollar signs on everything, we fail to realize the true scope of our generosity. Simple gifts are always best. Gifts of oneself, priceless.

+ On receiving.
To receive is humbling, forcing me to test the limits of my pride and gratitude. Giving is easier, receiving more difficult to rationalize. But, when times are hard, random acts of kindness abound. The trick is to find the balance - I give, I receive - trying at all times, to do the right thing.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Thursday, 27 November 2008 - A day of Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T18:26:00.004-07:00

Dear God:

Today, as I reflect on the things for which I am thankful, I wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.

Let our hearts be filled with kindness,
Our minds be calm and light,
May thanks arise within us
For all we share tonight.
~Susan Smalley

I've been away for some time ... entangled in frenzy of Senator Obama's Presidential campaign, suffering from severe writer's block that made me feel like I had nothing important or new to say and watching depression's gray fog creep towards me as the holidays approach. This week, I'm feeling much better about life in general and am ready to begin writing again.

So, on this Thanksgiving Day, I give special thanks for:

Good health
At the Air Force Academy's human performance lab, I had a DEXA full body scan. The results confirmed that my self-prescribed diet and exercise routine has worked miracles. My bone density now falls solidly in the normal range, a result that negates past diagnoses of osteopenia (early osteoporosis). To my surprise, my nonessential body fat content is below 15%, equaling that of NCAA Division 1 women athletes at the Academy - not bad for a 54-year-old woman.

Senator Barack Obama's win in the Presidential election.
Change is definitely upon us, and it feels marvelous. S and I worked hard, especially during the Democratic Party primary, to nominate and elect Senator Obama. On November 4, after MSNBC declared an Obama victory, I turned to S and exclaimed, "We did it!" I am still fired up and ready to go. Yes we can!

Blue state cheers.
Colorado turned blue this election season (although El Paso County, where we live, remained bright red). Imagine that. Two Democratic US senators and an overall win for Senator Obama. I'm elated to be residing once again in a blue state. I say "yes" to progressives and those who support 21st century solutions to our country's problems.

Work.
Because no matter its nature, complexity or opportunities, work adds value and purpose to my life.

First snow.
Snow arrived late this season ... October 21, 2008 to be exact. T, of course, was delighted by the flurries and small drifts. He thrives in cooler weather. His high energy level and spirits continue to impress S and me. T turns 12 next month ... a sad reminder that he won't be with us forever.

More climbing adventures.
Autumn's cooler weather and shorter days don't deter our outdoor climbing adventures. We're still regulars at Red Rock Canyon and the Ute Valley Park boulders. My current favorite is the 5.10b route that S and I climbed earlier this month. It resides on the notorious Wailing Wall in Red Rock Canyon and presents climbers with 90 feet of sustained 5.10 climbing. Because I'm so short (only 5'2"), climbing from bolt to bolt requires three or four sequential bouldering-type moves. Needless to say, I fell a few times during my first ascent. Next time we attempt this route, I plan to redpoint the climb.

Extended family.
Our Colorado Springs family includes neighbors, business colleagues and climbing friends. I'm pleased that our two Air Force Academy cadet friends continue to spend time with us on a regular basis - climbing, bouldering, watching NCAA or pro football, hanging out in the house with T and eating meals that showcase my cooking and baking skills.

Thanksgiving traditions.
Each Thanksgiving Day, S, T and I gather near the radio to listen to Arlo Guthrie's "Alice's Restaurant" on KRCC, the local public radio station. For dinner, we usually join friends and neighbors, contributing a few bottles of wine or a side dish or two (my best are homemade cranberry relish with a splash of whisky and sweet potatoes/yams flavored with rum). This year, we're joining our next door neighbor's celebration. The day after Thanksgiving, I cook our own feast (except I won't this year because I have to work). I don't shop on Black Friday ... just because it feels like the right thing to do.

Love.
I feel it ... love ... the Universe's assurance that my mere existence makes a difference on Earth. I think Mother Teresa said it best - "Every act of love is a work of peace, no matter how small." Here's to love, to peace.

For these blessings, I am very grateful.

Amen.

Photo: T poses near the Wailing Wall in Red Rock Canyon.

Sunday, 07 September 2008 - Two things

2008-09-07T23:28:00.000-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for two things.

First, that our high school neighbor, E, did not break his arm in last night's football game. Fortunately, the crushing blow to his arm merely bruised the bone and soft tissue. Since he's a senior, we didn't want an injury to end his season after only two games. He insists that he will play in next weekend's game.

Second, that our Air Force Academy cadets, M and A, really enjoyed climbing with us (two 50-somethings) at Red Rock Canyon. This time, we tackled climbs on the Australian wall. Notable firsts: M practiced leading while A belayed, and I tried out my new Mad Rock climbing shoes.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Saturday, 06 September 2008 - Restraint

2008-09-06T17:20:00.002-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for restraint.

M and A, our Air Force Academy cadets, stop by before heading to Ute Valley Park where they plan to climb some of the top-roped routes. Despite the fact that we have a lot to do at home, S and I decide to join them for an hour or so - they'll sport climb while we boulder.

I don't want to overdo it, however. Restraint must temper my enthusiasm. The four of us (plus T) plan to visit Red Rock Canyon tomorrow for a full day of climbing. At age 20, M and A can recover overnight. At age 50+, I need at least one full rest day - preferably two - between climbing adventures.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Friday, 05 September 2008 - A new friend

2008-09-05T15:19:00.000-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a new friend.

Our newest friend is Austin, a sixth grader who lives down the street. For whatever reason, he decided that knowing S, T and me is a good thing.

We don't mind. Austin is bright, energetic and considerate - someone to replace Dominic who has all but disappeared from our lives. Anyway, interacting with young people keeps us, well, young.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Thursday, 04 September 2008 - Tired feet

2008-09-04T19:19:00.003-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for very tired feet.

My feet are so tired tonight. Their tenderness and discomfort mean just one thing, that I rock climbed long and hard this afternoon.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Wednesday, 03 September 2008 - Seasonal transitions

2008-09-03T19:19:00.006-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for seasonal transitions.

A merchant writes in her newsletter that her mother, a teacher, knows that the beginning of the new school year is near when the goldenrod blooms.

Mine, on the brink of showing its golden mane for weeks, finally bloomed last week. Since the local schools opened in mid-August, the goldenrod's flowers mean something else in Colorado - the onset of autumn weather.

I waited a few days to mention the seasonal transition, just in case the cooler weather was actually a red herring. Today, I announce fall's official start (retroactive to September 1). The night's low temperature hovers around 40 degrees, so I must cover the tomatoes, peppers and eggplants at sunset with old sheets and pillow cases (I still want the "fruit" to set). I will continue this practice until the first hard freeze. In the meantime, I'm praying for a lovely Indian summer with warm days, vegetables and herbs to harvest and excellent climbing adventures.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Tuesday, 02 September 2008 - FBorFW

2008-09-02T21:18:00.000-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for the comic strip, For Better or For Worst (FBorFW).

For many years, I've faithfully followed Lynn Johnson's chronicle of the Patterson family. I like comics where time moves forward, characters age and life lessons abound. So, when Ms. Johnson announced her decision to end the story on August 31 and restart the strip from the very beginning on September 1, I was sad and disappointed.

I know too much about the characters to wonder what will happen next. And, of course, I know the end of the story. Such knowledge, however, won't keep me from reading the strip. But, I won't be in a big hurry to read it daily. Perhaps catching up on weekends will suffice this time around.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Monday, 01 September 2008 - Common ground

2008-09-01T18:23:00.008-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for common ground.

You don't have a garden just for yourself. You have it to share. ~Augusta Carter

When you have a garden, you also have a conversation topic, information to share, questions to ask, complaints to register, aspirations and dreams to ponder. Nearly everyone listens - at least for a little while - when one speaks of gardens and gardening and homegrown tomatoes. Strangers nod in silent agreement, friends commiserate, family members try to understand.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Sunday, 31 August 2008 - More laughter

2008-08-31T23:23:00.001-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for more laughter.

We join M, his parents and brother for dinner at a favorite Thai restaurant. M's father and S are expert storytellers and willingly entertain us for a few hours. We smile and laugh as they tell funny stories and share quirky observations of the world at large.

Before going to bed, I wash my face as usual. I glance in the mirror and for once, actually like what I see. I think I look younger, even without makeup. Must be the laughter ... my own.

(Note to self: laugh more.)

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Saturday, 30 August 2008 - The end of a difficult phase

2008-08-30T18:22:00.013-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for the end of a difficult phase.

If I had my life to live over ...
I would have invited friends over to dinner
even if the carpet was stained and the sofa faded.
~Erma Bombeck

A house that does not have one worn, comfy chair in it is soulless. ~May Sarton

Yes, I am finally over "my home is unfit for company" phase. I open the front door and let friends enter.

They already know, anyway.

My home, far from House Beautiful perfect, reflects my unbalanced and uncertain life, perfectly.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Friday, 29 August 2008 - Three good books

2008-08-29T11:57:00.008-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for three good books.

Recently, a "fan," interested in my reading list, asked me to recommend a few books. Fortunately, I've been reading more than cooking, gardening and knitting texts and offered three interesting titles. These books were so good (in my opinion, at least) that I could not put them down and read them straight through into the early morning hours.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time by Mark Haddon (fiction)
Swallow the Ocean by Laura M. Flynn (memoir)
Listen by Wendy Salinger (memoir)

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Thursday, 28 August 2008 - First fruits

2008-08-28T23:56:00.010-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for first fruits.

I don't know why, but I am elated when I discover the first evidence of anything edible in my garden. It doesn't matter what grew last year.

The year's first fruits are always a welcomed sight. They prove that, despite environmental challenges and my incessant complaints and worries, I've succeeded.

Here it is, the end of August. Some of my prized edible plants are finally bearing fruit. Finally!

I'm especially pleased to see the sungold cherry tomatoes, eggplants, jalapeno and mariachi peppers, mint and basil doing so well despite the late date. Now I'm praying for one more month of intense sunshine to guarantee the harvest.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Photo: The season's first ripe sungold cherry tomato is a sight for my sore eyes.

Wednesday, 27 August 2008 - Another redpoint

2008-08-27T19:34:00.001-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for another redpoint.

S, T and I are climbing on the Solar Slab at Red Rock Canyon. One route, an athletic 5.10a, challenges me every time I attempt it. In fact, I have yet to redpoint it (i.e., climb it cleanly) - I always manage to slip on the crux.

During my first attempt, I again struggle on the crux. The hand and footholds are very small and smooth so if I don't move precisely, if I don't balance perfectly, I'll fall. I map a possible route over the crux but can't link the moves successfully. I fall, regroup, and try again. I eventually finish the climb, glad that it's over but unhappy about my mistakes.

After S completes his climb, I get my second chance. During this attempt, I approach the crux thoughtfully, carefully considering my intended path, rehearsing the movement series before I begin it. This time, on a warm August afternoon that wears just a hint of autumn, I get my redpoint. S agrees that it's my best climb of the season.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Tuesday, 26 August 2008 - Good neighbor deeds

2008-08-26T20:59:00.005-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for good neighbor deeds.

One of our young friends confesses that whenever her school has a fundraiser, she regards me as her top prospect. She knows that I will listen to her spiel, ask questions about the purpose for the fundraiser and, most importantly, buy something. This time, she's selling Entertainment Books.

Personally, I don't know why our public schools burden young students with fundraising responsibilities. They probably count on the parents and relatives making purchases.

Selling door-to-door is a daunting activity for anyone, let alone children. I remember my own unpleasant selling experiences. Most neighbors answered the door and listened to my spiel. But, in the end, very few bought anything.

So, many years ago, S and I resolved to be good neighbors and do our best to support student activities. If this meant buying magazine subscriptions, tubs of cookie dough, boxes of candy or coupon books, then so be it.

In doing so, I know that we are helping even the shyest children write a small but significant success story, building their confidence in dealing with adults and showing that we care about them and their future.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Monday, 25 August 2008 - A return to normalcy

2008-08-25T22:47:00.001-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a return to normalcy.

Now that the Beijing Olympics are finally over, our lives can return to normal. Well, as normal as things can be around here with the Democratic National Convention convening in Denver, the US Open Tennis Championship underway, the Vuelta a Espana (tour of Spain cycling race) set to begin on Saturday and the start of football season ... collegiate, high school, middle school and pro.

Sports and politics. We'll be living and dying both for the next few months. How normal is that!

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Sunday, 24 August 2008 - An August climbing adventure ... finally!

2008-08-24T22:46:00.000-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for an August climbing adventure ... finally!

The mid-summer monsoons delighted my gardens but ruined our August rock climbing schedule. So, today's adventure in Red Rock Canyon is a welcome one.

Two Air Force Academy cadets join S, T and me - M, who climbs with us whenever he can, and his friend, A, who is sport climbing for the first time.

Yes, the nearly six-hour session is busy, very tiring and lots of fun. An incoming storm alarms us. Fortunately, it brings only sporadic thunder and lightening - no show-stopping rain, this time.

The four of us take turns climbing and belaying (yes, even I take my turn belaying the 6-foot tall, 185 pound climbers). Twenty-five pitches later, S finally takes down the ropes. We carefully repack our gear before heading slowly down the trail.

T is the only one with any reserve energy. He sees the return hike as his chance to sniff, mark and jog to his heart's content. I can't keep up with T (I fell twice due his fast pace down the steepest part of the trail) so I hand S the leash. Back at the truck, M takes T on a bonus hike up the steep trail to the east (one of T's favorites).

I think I know of at least one chocolate Labrador retriever who will sleep very well tonight.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Photo: While we climb, T chews on scrub oak bushes.

Saturday, 23 August 2008 - Laughter

2008-08-23T23:42:00.002-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for laughter.

Remember, men need laughter sometimes more than food.
~Anna Fellows Johnston

A rare dinner out with friends. The food is delicious, European-inspired, exquisite flavors and just right portions. But, the food is a minor detail because Brenda is seated at the table. The day's gloom vanished the moment she walked into the lobby and said hello. And, her wonderful laugh. Contagious, of course.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Friday, 22 August 2008 - A change in scenery

2008-08-22T10:57:00.005-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a change in scenery.

Inspiration is wonderful when it happens, but the writer must develop an approach for the rest of the time ... The wait is simply too long. ~Leonard Bernstein (1918-1990)

I'm struggling with writer's block again. My strategy between those rare inspirational moments is to keep on writing, one word after another.

S wants to go bouldering later this afternoon at Ute Valley Park. I'm sure that a change in scenery will do me good, that the act of climbing large boulders will anchor some of my ideas and thoughts in a well-written sentence or poem.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Thursday, 21 August 2008 - A way out

2008-08-21T23:40:00.006-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a way out.

The best way out is always through. ~Robert Frost

So, I've taken Robert Frost's road not taken many times and not regretted my decisions. Now, I will follow his advice and walk through - through this storm, through this desert, through this forest. I hope the way out is a well lit path and the exit sign, close by.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Wednesday, 20 August 2008 - Another gardening lesson

2008-08-20T19:46:00.007-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for another gardening lesson.

The watering of a garden requires as much judgment as the seasoning of soup. ~Helena Rutherford Ely

Another gardening lesson: The art of watering involves knowing just how much and exactly when. Plants, even xeric ones, need adequate water to thrive. In arid Colorado, a little goes a long way.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Photos: The recent spell of cool, rainy weather has revived the backyard. Looks like S will have to mow the native grass lawn for only the second time this season.

Tuesday, 19 August 2008 - Hindsight

2008-08-19T20:54:00.003-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for hindsight.

To look backward for a while is to refresh the eye, to restore it, and to render it the more fit for its prime function of looking forward. ~Margaret Fairless Barber, The Roadmender

20-20 hindsight.
Experience.
If only I knew then what I know now.

I glance backward for clues, an understanding, a new truth. Then, intrigued by what I see, I ask why this and that happened instead of something else, but reach no conclusion. I painstakingly dissect good and bad decisions, analyzing to death their tiny fragments.

I replay major themes and find new lyrics sung to the same old tune. I sense overt warning signs, detect subtle first hints and relive embarrassing slaps in the face. I find a fragrant rose here, a sunny daffodil there and bothersome weeds everywhere.

I succeed. I fail. I grieve. I reconsider. I learn. Then, I decide to move on. Sometimes willingly, other times reluctantly. Destination, unknown or nebulous at best. But at least I move on.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Monday, 18 August 2008 - More courage

2008-08-18T22:42:00.000-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for more courage.

We must be willing to get rid of the life we've planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us. ~Joseph Campbell

I've given up planning my life. Well, not entirely. I still need to plan a little. Just enough so I can get through the day. Just far ahead so my weekly grocery list makes sense. But, not so much that I damage dreams and relinquish hope.

But letting go completely. That's a real challenge. To get rid of a planned life and welcome destiny. I don't know if I have the courage to do it.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Sunday, 17 August 2008 - A repaired fence

2008-08-17T22:48:00.001-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for a repaired fence.

When a brown bear toppled the same section of fence a few years ago, he/she tore the gate from its hinges and broke two posts. S spent a full weekend digging out the old posts, setting new ones in concrete and building a new gate.

Last night or early this morning, the bear merely ripped the section from the posts. And, despite the rain, S repaired the damage in less than a hour. Now, T is safe and sound again in his fenced yard.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Saturday, 16 August 2008 - Impossible dreams

2008-08-16T23:02:00.000-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for impossible dreams. Like Lance Armstrong winning the Tour de France for seven consecutive years and, now, Michael Phelps winning eight Olympic gold medals in Beijing.

The impossible can always be broken down into possibilities. ~Author Unknown

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Friday, 15 August 2008 - Dara Torres

2008-08-15T21:53:00.002-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for Dara Torres.

U.S. Olympic swimmer, Dara Torres, inspires me with her "dreams have no age limit" message. At age 41, she consistently beats women half her age.

As an athlete, I will never be in her league. But, I can do my best with what I have - some natural talent, fitness, determination and passion.

When I took up rock climbing two years ago at age 52, I knew I had a lot to prove to myself. The sport clearly attracts teens, not baby boomers.

Still, I think I've done all right given my late start. Not exceptional according to the world's standards, but good enough for me.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Thursday, 14 August 2008 - Passing grades

2008-08-14T19:56:00.012-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for passing grades.

A bad grade is only one letter in the Essay of Life. ~Lee Drake

For the young people in our neighborhood, school begins in a few days. Whenever we get the chance, S, T and I encourage them to study hard and exploit their diverse talents. I'm excited to see what amazing things our young friends will accomplish in the classroom, on the field or in the studio. And, of course, I want them to pass all their classes!

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Wednesday, 13 August 2008 - Bread pudding

2008-08-13T19:54:00.007-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for bread pudding.

When I think of bread pudding, I think about my business trips to New Orleans. When I dined alone, I often feasted on a regional meal of salad, French bread, boiled crawfish and bread pudding with whiskey sauce.

Yesterday, anticipating another baking adventure, I made an extra loaf of French bread. Today, I decide to make bread pudding based on a Mark Bittman recipe.

My recipe combines day-old French bread, half and half, eggs, real maple syrup, homemade vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground ginger and sliced almonds. Layer the bread in a large baking dish. Whisk together the remaining ingredients (except the almonds) and pour over the bread. Let soak for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle almonds over the top. Drizzle additional maple syrup over the almonds. Bake. Serve hot from the oven, warm, at room temperature or cold from the refrigerator.

This bread pudding is rich and flavorful, light (i.e., not soggy), not too sweet. The top crust sports toasted almonds glazed with maple syrup. The bread is moist and creamy yet firm, the flavors - maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger - delicate and complex. Better, I think, than the bread puddings I enjoyed in New Orleans.

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.

Tuesday, 12 August 2008 - Mid-summer monsoons

2008-08-12T20:22:00.003-06:00

Dear God:

Today, I am thankful for mid-summer monsoons.

They're here, right on schedule. I didn't expect them this year, given the ongoing drought. So, while T did his rain sleep, I prayed extra hard for moisture, knowing the storms would spoil our rock climbing adventures.

O Lord, grant that in some way it may rain every day, say from about midnight until three o'clock in the morning, but, you see, it must be gentle and warm so that it can soak in; grant that at the same time it would not rain on campion, alyssum, heliaanthemum, lavender, and the others which you in your infinite wisdom know are drought loving plants - I will write their names on a paper if you like - and grant that the sun may shine the whole day long, but not everywhere (not for instance, on spiraea, or on gentian, plantain lily, and rhododendron), and not too much; that there may be plenty of dew and little wind, enough worms, no plant-lice and snails, no mildew, and that once a week thin liquid manure and guano may fall from heaven. Amen.
- Karel Capek, The Gardener's Year, 1929

For this blessing, I am grateful.

Amen.