Simple Pleasures

My last post was in December of 2018. So much has changed in daily life, both personally and globally. We are in our sixth week of the pandemic, and though I write daily for myself, I thought I would take a moment to put some words out there in case anyone is still listening.

I’ve left the Schoolhouse behind. My latest move three months ago was to the other side of town. I’m living in what I proudly call The Stable at WildSide Farm. This magical property is inhabited by 13 other domesticated beings and a lot of wildlife. Alice settled in nicely. She adores the two goats, is cautious and respectful of the three horses, friendly to the four humans, and dismissive of with the four other dogs. The farm is under a massive reconstruction project which affords Alice a constant stream of contractors and delivery trucks to keep an eye on all day.

Our little cottage looks out on the front yard with southern exposure. To the west are Mt. Monadnock and the site of glorious sunsets. Originally it was the stable, hence the name, and now the hayloft is my office and guest room. Unfortunately, we moved just before the pandemic, so visiting has is on hold for the moment.

We have two beehives in the orchard, and they have reawoken my love for beekeeping. The chicks have arrived, and as soon as they are old enough, the orchard will also house their coop. It’s idyllic in so many ways, but most importantly, in that, I am encouraged to participate in whatever I like. Still, the daily responsibilities for care and upkeep (as well as the financial burdens) are removed from my plate.

I’ve lived alone now for roughly ten years, so the isolation that is causing most people tremendous anxiety is almost standard for me. My routines have not been too severely impacted. As a hospice/elder care worker, I’m considered essential and am allowed to continue to visit my clients.  Additionally, two days a week I’m a cashier at the local cash market which puts me at the head of the line for necessary workers but also exposes me to higher risk. It’s a delicate balance between doing what I love and staying safe.

My days are filled with animals, plants, bees, Alice, and like-minded folks.  But, just to balance things out, I will tell you I’ve fretted over coloring my hair as the gray roots bolt. I struggle with all the little aches and pains of age that are magnified during a global health emergency. I can’t find my keys/glasses – “Why did I come into this room??” and “Jeeze, I’ve got to pee again!!??”

The simple pleasures outweigh the minor irritants.

Took my new hiking boots out for a jaunt around the neighborhood