Mid January Already

We're in the dead of winter already, and I'm feeling a little restless. On the positive side of things, even though bitter cold outside, we've had some brilliant sun during most days and I've been taking advantage of the situation and getting out to run my errands during those times. It helps.

Avi went home to Israel, and Katie decided to stay here until the wedding in April. There's still a bunch to do with the planning, and it will be easier for her to take care of details while in the states. Selfishly, I am enjoying having her home. We had a Mama/Katie Day today, too, with lunch at Panera followed by a little browsing at Barnes and Noble and Whole Foods. Tonight we'll watch a horror film on Netflix while we sip on wine and nosh on cheese and grapes.

Speaking of Barnes and Noble, I picked up a new book to read, The Gentle Art Of Swedish Death Cleaning by Margareta Magnusson. The title sounds morbid, but the book itself seems charming, and I think it will offer new insights as I continue on my journey to simplifying life ...

And speaking of death, one of Mom's beloved fur-babies, Peaches, passed away. She had cancer, poor little thing. Luckily, Mom still has Patches to sleep with and cuddle with on the couch. It made me think of Jessie Dog. Animals are so wonderful to have, but to lose them is so hard.

No flu at the Care Center yet!

I still need to take the tree down and put away Christmas decorations. Maybe this will be the week, but in the meantime I will just turn on the lights as Christmas trees really are a bit sad looking when the lights are off.

And as I reflect on the start of the New Year, I think this year should be a year of self initiative and courage. As Grandma Gloria used to say, I can do it myself. It never hurts to figure things out on your own, it's empowering.

Happy New Year!