With all the chaos and horror in the world, we who are safe and healthy have much to be grateful for. I complain at times, often about limited time and the inability to write my stories. How petty that is despite how paramount it seems at times.

On this day I want to think about the simple things that make me feel whole and happy. Besides the obvious – a loving family and a roof over our heads – simple things like a beautiful sunrise, the sound of songbirds first thing in the morning, and even muffins baking in the oven make me smile and appreciate a given moment.

As a way to stand back and appreciate life more, we often take day trips. Our favorite haunt is any place upstate NY. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a trip to the Bronx Zoo or the Bronx Botanical Gardens. Because it was so beautiful and so recent, I’d like to share some images from our last trip to the Gardens.

We went there to see the Japanese Chrysanthemum exhibit. They were stunning. The tribute paid to these magnificent flowers is inspiring. The dedication in labor and time is hard to fathom, but the beauty of the effort is impossible to ignore.

  

       

 

 

 

 

After we viewed those awe-inspiring arrangments, we strolled the paths of the Gardens. Drying leaves crunched under our feet…

 

 

 

 

as water trickled over rocks in the river,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

and ducks and geese cackled amongst themselves.   

 

 

 

 

 

 

At times, we’d stand in place, not moving, just listening. The heavy sound of winter-quiet filled the space around us.  

    

The air, so still, so crisp, teased us, made us think of crackling fireplaces and cedar scented candles. I thought of cozy evenings and pumpkin pie. I imagined happiness and peace for everyone everywhere.

I wish for that happiness. I hope for that peace. For me, for you. For everyone.

Happy Thanksgiving. May you have much to be thankful for now and always.