The flu

I've had a touch of the flu this week!  Been advised by my family and friends to take it easy.  I don't think I've ever slept so much, read so much, watched TV so much, sat so much, as I've done this week.  I've recovered from the flu, but now I'm just plain sick of my own company.  It's both humbling and frustrating to be sick.   There's not much one can do except curl up on the couch, embrace the illness and enjoy the respite.  Not an easy task for me for sure.  I'm still all about "getting things done."  The Christmas decorations more or less glared at me all week to be put snuggly away until next year.  I'm always a little reluctant to put it all away at one time because it looks so bare - kind of like January in general.  But today I discovered a little spot of color in the bareness.  This precious African violet is a baby of the one that cousin Peggy rescued from the throw-away pile when we were cleaning out Mom's house.  The plant had been resting in a dark place during the holidays, but now has a place of prominence in front of a little window in my entry.  The blossom's color brought sunshine into an otherwise gloomy day.

 My Mom's violets live on!

And what says New Year, New Life more than a bouquet of pussy willows?

I'd helped my friend, Cecilia, get her house decorated for our 4th Day celebration.  I enjoyed exploring her cupboards and drawers.  She owns a thousand beautiful candles, I swear.  Anyway, she presented me with this little silver pitcher yesterday and a note that said, "A token of my affection and appreciation for all your help at Christmas time."  It's a gift I'll treasure as much as the friendship of this dear friend.

The card is from Sheila Kopczynski - I received it in the mail yesterday.  I cannot come up with enough words to describe Sheila - generous, kind, compassionate, thoughtful, fun-loving, caring!  It seems like she sent this card out of the blue - how did she know I needed a little lift today?

Today I've turned down the thermostat and opened all my doors and windows hoping to get rid of all the bad germs and let fresh air into my little house!  I'm ready to let the New Year begin!!