The Last Day of 2009

It is 4pm on the last day of the year 2009, and all is well at house 204. The sun is slanting though a slow build up of gathering clouds, and flooding my varanda with honey colored sunlight causing the leaves of the potted plants to cast glorious shadows on each other and the polished concrete floor. It's the time of day I have always loved best - artists call it the "golden hour" , that time when the sky is full of magic, and everything is colored by a warm blanket of golden light that leaves long delicious shadows, and makes one want to linger so as to soak up every bit of the enchanted atmosphere.

I have told Benson he can go home, but he lingers on, saying he wants to finish pulling a few weeds in the vegetable garden. I think he too senses the magic in the air, and wants to sit quietly pulling weeds as he breathes in the pervading sense that all is well in the world at least at this time and in this place.

The rainy season has come with it's daily rain, and clashing thunder. It has caused my yard to spring to life, and sing at the top of it's lungs. Everywhere are brightly colored flowers, and the trees, and bushes are exploding with new life. Benson claims the rain carries not just a source of water, but food to them. He calls it "food water".

I am so blessed to be here at this time, in this place. John and I are healthy and happy, as are our kids, and grandkids. We have everything we need, and most of what we want. We are so thankful for our many, many blessings. We wish you the very best of New Years, and that you, and all your loved ones enjoy health, wealth, and happiness in the comming new year.