An ordinary day...

Feeling rather decadent...I am home ALONE. Totally alone.

You have no idea how rare this is. Four kids and a homebody husband...rarely alone. But perhaps a new phase of life is beginning. Anna is pretty independent, and driving. Jake is working on a pretty active social calendar himself. And Frank travels for work, although very rarely over a week end.

Anyhow...what did I do in my glorious time?

I made dinner for the kids, the neighbors and my in laws. Simple fried fish and potatoes, and slices of fresh picked pear. (the neighbors invited me to take a basketful right off their trees!) Anna delivered to my in laws, and I delivered two portions to my grateful neighbors. (they had been very busy in the yard all afternoon...I was over there a few times) I cooked because I wanted to...it felt luxurious to not *have to* and to not be rushing anywhere... I put on good music and enjoyed the time in the kitchen.

Once the kids ate, they cleared out. And I headed to my favorite place - the garden. I spent a few hours weeding, watering and trimming. The flowers are spectacular right now. And again...I did it because I *could* but didn't *have to.* It's not that I'm lazy, it's just that ... I get tired of the schedules and the *have to's.*

I washed the sheets on our bed, and sprinkled them with lavender powder. I'll be there soon.

Right after my bubble bath. That's next.

It really is the simple pleasures that make life grand. And the sound of silence. The night sounds of late summer are streaming in my window, along with the flow of water from our fountain...

I'm exhausted. But I'm puttering myself back to stability. Once my little world gets back into bloom and order...well...then I'll be ready for another busy streak. It's the ebb and flow of life right now. I am blessed.

These are links to the photos I posted on facebook today. Hope this works!

"An Autumn Day" can be seen by pasting this into your browser: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2036517&id=1116654663&l=59c903824d

"Sailing on Lake Michigan" can be seen by pasting this into your browser: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2036516&id=1116654663&l=e9685b76a8

Ooooo...the coyotes are howling in the woods - another cool night sound. And Boomer just drew closer.

Good night my friends. The bubbles are calling.