Our home hasn’t found sleep in the past few nights, for reasons we don’t yet know. We’ve been tossing bedspreads to the floor, flipping pillows to the cool side. This morning, I called a truce earlier than usual, padded out to the dark dining room to find even the raccoons on the lawn, ever awake and digging for breakfast.
Insomnia, the great Gordian knot.
The good news, of course, is it finds me here typing to you. I’ve had a more difficult time coming to this space during daylight hours. There are apples to peel, slice, dole out. Another chapter in Der Kleine Mann. Emails, always. But for now, for this moment, all is quiet and calm. All are fed.
It is just me, right here.
(Bliss.)
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A small smattering of loveliness to share:
1. Months ago, I asked the fine friends of Instagram for the greatest recipes beknownst and have slowly taken it upon myself to test each and every one (a most suitable goal if ever there was one). Here’s the clear winner so far, all those who are curious.
2. It is no secret we waddle around in long underwear at first frost, and last year I stocked up on these. They’re thick and structured, perfect for weeks-in-a-row wash and wear rotations. A not-so-short list of places I’ve worn them: Here, near-daily. Divy’s taekwondo class. Our favorite corner bread shop. Grocery shopping. Walks to the park. Not yet work, but it’s only a matter of time…
3. Eyebrows, then. While I once was one to hop on the micro-blading/eyelash-extension/whatever the kids are doin’ these days-train, I do love a good eyebrow dressing, and my general preference is gel > brush. Boy brow is good, but I like the ingredients in this one better.
4. Jojo Moyes, The Giver of Stars. I read books as often as I can, for the authors constructive wisdom and simmering depth. Though the writing is slow, that’s never been much of a dealbreaker for me (oft: the opposite). My December has been made all the better for this one.
5. Martin’s gearing up for a big project at work, so I’ve got my favorite meal scheduled. We all hate to see him go, but on the plus side, I don’t have to share the bread.
6. Speaking of bread, our Whole Foods is carrying this, and the rye flavor has graced no less than three daily meals over here. Eggs, chicken, rice, toast, potatoes, salad – heck, you could probably slather it over a bar of soap and it would taste better than an afternoon at Gjelina (very good indeed).
7. A conversation with Laurie White, on rituals and obituaries, trees and love.
8. Markus came home from his hockey practice a few days ago with a short video clip. He explained his 6 am practice in great detail, said today was the day to visit his father’s relatives. So he did. Said tomorrow was the day to visit his mother’s relatives. So we did. Said all week is the week to gift oranges and apples. So we did. And I am learning this: I will never regret following a child’s lead.
9. A happy little weather station.
10. Flannel sheets, for when we all start snoozing again (soon?).
Sending peace and warmth to your neck of the woods, sleepless or not. Happy December, friends.
