Back in the Saddle, and Not Going Anywhere!

This time, I'm blogging about being hospitalized with pneumonia, missing more work, and coming home to rest for a week.  Who knew that the noodle-y legs would lead to this?!

I'm home, with orders to sit. And rest.  And hydrate. It's given me ample time to think about my blessings: caring family and friends, and students and coworkers...a caring and loving husband, a peaceful and nature-abundant place to live. 

Today is my second day home from the hospital, and while I was gone, all the pretty golden leaves fell.  The flower garden west of the house is still in riotous array, colorful spires and blooms falling over each other in their last hurrah of the season.  Colder and perhaps freezing temperatures are forecasted, so I am paying attention to all the colorful displays while they are available.

I snipped three roses to bring into the entry hallway, arranged some other plants and flowers that came to me, and sat down with a steaming cup of Korean tea, called Ssangwha Cha.  It is a delicious, spicy, nutmeg-y tasting tea that comes in little packets that include chopped fruits and nuts (I think).  You can buy it at Korean grocery markets.

Later, I put on a long denim jacket with a hood and fun wooden-toggle closings, hooked up Jackson, and took him out for a doggy-potty-break.  Passing the mailbox, I snagged several envelopes addressed to me, two of them being large, manila-type envelopes.

I found a sunny, quiet spot on the red brick patio, settled into a green rocking-style patio chair, and shook out the contents of the envelopes.
Two were cards from loving friends, and the big envelopes were full of get well wishes from two of my classes.  I sat there in the sunshine, with the mild fall breeze ruffling my hair, and smiled over the love and hard work of my art students.  Hickory nuts were scattered over the table-top in front of me, as well as acorns and fallen leaves.  I reached over and lifted a resin bird statue to anchor the fluttering pages. 

I am thinking here of the teachers who took the time and effort to have their students do this kindness...about what that teaches children, to think of others, to reach out, to express empathy.

Of course, I came on inside and rested after the outing, and reflected some more about life and love and gratefulness.

I think I'll refill my teacup, snuggle with the dog, and begin using one of my new idea-journals to jot down some inspirational thoughts.

Blessings!--Miss Elainie



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