Currently, in January–

READING: The Way of the Fearless Writer by Beth Kempton and Fingerpainting on the Moon by Peter Levitt. These two books are part getting back into a consistent writing habit.

LISTENING: the sounds of silence–not the song so much as just the sound of being quiet so that I actually hear and listen to “the world”. Right now, it’s traffic noise on the road in front of the house, but earlier today, I heard the birds, welcome sounds that spring is around the corner.

BAKING: bread in my bread machine. This weekend, I made two loaves, one each of sourdough and German Christmas bread. I think the Christmas bread will be a year-long addition to the bread recipes. It’s filled with cinnamon, golden raisins, walnuts, and brandy. It’s delicious for breakfast with my cup of Harney and Sons Hot Cinnamon Spice Tea.

LOVING: the freedom of being retired. I thought I would miss the daily routines of planning lessons, preparing materials, researching and reading new texts, and teaching; however, I don’t miss the administrative parts of the job. I do miss the energy of the students. Middle-schoolers are a special breed, and I loved teaching them the past four years.

PLANNING: Projects! I joined the One Little Word year-long class and have started my album. I chose a “big” word this year–manifest. It’s one of those words that can be a “good word”–something I can still hear former students Brice Obermeyer and Chris Hunter saying in those English III and IV Honors classes, lo!, those many years ago. I’m thinking of ways that word will set my intentions for this year. Another project I’m planning is the Ultimate Outsider challenge to visit all the state parks at least once. I may not see them all this year, but it’s on the bucket list! Mama wants to go with me!

WATCHING: Miss Scarlet and the Duke on PBS/SCETV. I know, it sounds like a Regency romance title, doesn’t it? It is a Victorian mystery series, part of the PBS Masterpiece Mystery series. I love the characters and the relationship between Miss Scarlet, a lady detective, and Liam Wellington, a detective for Scotland Yard.

FEELING: thankful. My family is, for the most part, healthy and doing well. I have a good home and a good life. I am surrounded by people whom I love and who love me. I can’t ask for more, can I?