Making it real

Dear Sonja,

  When we were out for coffee the other day you asked how I was doing with living alone.  That day, and the days previous, I was doing fine.  This afternoon when I came home, still not feeling 100% I felt at loose ends.  So many things have changed, so many things to think about.  The only thing for it was start in the kitchen.  It was a rush of comfort to see the apple peel curling away, to smell the cinnamon, to feel the rough edges of the oats and grit of the brown sugar.  Now I know where I am, and everything's okay.  Thanks so much for asking.

All my best,
Kate

In the thick of it

Dear Laurel,

   This week is like a grand houseparty for my family--a visitor from the other side of the world, two grown up kids back from far away, and the one who has been here all along leaving for England while everyone else is still here.  Even though Christmas Eve is still to come it feels like we must have passed it days ago--with good food, Grandpa's prayers at the table, games, and stories from all the worldwide experiences, everyday has been a high point.    The midnight Christmas Eve service will be the diamond in the crown, though, with songs of joy and quiet thanks for the Unspeakable Gift.  Wishing you the dearest of Christmas blessings~

All my best,
Kate

Thanksgiving

Wishing you a day filled with peace and with gratitude for blessings past, present, and yet to come.

All my best,
Kate

Yes, of course!

Dear Laurel,

   It's hard to put a finger on those magical ingredients that go into the moment when a friend (of any age) unabashedly asks for something.  I love it!  Could I have more dessert with whipped cream?  Could I come over and have some of that pie you're baking?  I need some creative input with my project, could I come over and show it to you?  I need to bake some cakes, could I come bake in your kitchen?  Seriously, I can't measure how that warms my heart.  Is there any better gift than the confidence and trust of friendship?  I am thankful that I have that kind of friendship with you. So I have to ask, when can I come to your house for coffee?

All my best,
Kate

Quilt time

Quilt time on the couch

Dear Sonja,

  Today I enjoyed some quilt time.  I rarely indulge in the luxury of sleeping during the day.  But this rainy afternoon, after a heartwarming morning at church I bundled myself into my quilt--the one with my name on it-- and allowed myself the pleasure of slipping away for a while.  I wasn't gone long, but it was wonderful. I am so grateful for the peace and safety of home, for quietness of spirit, and for the ability to rest.  I hope your Sunday was restful, too.

All my best,

Kate

Purposeful beauty

Fall Walk

Dear Laurel,

  It's not very often that I get to walk in the early part of the day, but I was able to this morning.  It was as quiet as the far reaches of the city can be, overcast, and a bit crisp.  Seeing the effect of the wide range of flaming colors I was taken aback at the skill it takes to create a landscape that serves a purpose. Walking through the carefully designed colorscape around the retirement community and hospital and then through the natural looking wooded setting of a neighborhood park I saw beauty that was purposefully arranged for enjoyment--all designed for calm, quiet, and joy.  Amazing and wonderful.  I hope we can walk together soon.

All my best,
Kate

Postcards

Refrigerator door

 

Dear Cal,

  I added a new card to the collection the other day.  Vera sent it from Pennsylvania--pretty picture but they missed the fall colors by about two weeks.  You have to admit that my small collection is somewhat impressive--oh come on,  you know it is!  Oman, Italy, England, and three states in this picture.  I love being remembered by someone off seeing the sights of the world. 

All my best,
Kate

Kindred Spirits

Dear Laurel,
   I'm thinking big thoughts today.  Two of them.  First, that kindred spirits come in all ages, shapes, and sizes. Many times in my life I've had that kindred spirit kind of connection to much older people, but now that I'm older I have the joy of relating closely to someone who is much younger.  My second thought is, that it is a wise parent who holds the affections of their child with a grip loose enough to allow for good, meaningful relationships with other adults.   I need to remember to thank this young one's mother.

All my best,
Kate