In my own backyard:

Thanksgiving is over. We went to a friend's house and shared the meal and good fellowship, but I couldn't see going through Thanksgiving and NOT having leftovers. So, the next day, I got out the trusty old water smoker and cooked our own bird.

The day was gorgeous, and as I worked outside, I became aware of the Fall colors of our Northern California coast. They are not as flashy or plentiful as the bright showiness of Spring and Summer, but they are there, if you look for them.

A little mindful looking yeilded some pretty amazing results. Vibrant snap dragons and penstemon, faded roses and holdout alpine strawberries. Even a Meyer lemon from a tree my wife got from someone who was throwing it away as a failure which she nursed back to health.




Pretty amazing. And a good way to encounter gratitude in my own backyard.

Oh, things change and go hither and yon. Life is full of loss and aquisition. Every departure ends with arrival. If you've read much of this blog you know I haven't been happy about a lot of the cards which the dealer has laid before me lately, but that's just how it goes sometimes. There are many things I am truely grateful for, and sometimes it takes opening my eyes and walking around my backyard to see that. Sometimes I even see an angel . . . .

I hope you had a good holiday and celebrated the things you are thankful for.