I am terrible at taking gifts...

And compliments...

But I’m starting to like it.

After a month traveling, I returned with low expectations, and a high desire to relax. That’s why it was so heartwarming to go through my usual overflow of mail and find not one, not two, but three unexpected and delightful gifts.

Two were from my new Substack friends,

Switter’s World

and

Jonathan Potter

After being his 200th subscriber, in a truly freaky coincidence of a reply to his post, Switter sent me the wackiest of awards, a $100 Trillion Zimbabwe commemorative banknote. I’ve been riveted by Switter’s preparation for his epic trek. I highly recommend following.

Then in the same batch of mail, a beautiful book, “Tulips for Elsie”, by one of my favorite daily poetry writers, Jonathan Potter.

Since my return, I’ve pushed through several huge deadlines (and finally took down that Christmas tree) and am seeking equilibrium, even if short lived.

That was when, to my utter astonishment, the feral kitty, Floofles, whom I Trapped Neutered Released (TNR'ed) EIGHT years ago, came inside to eat for the first time EVER! She’s been coming inside regularly since, and is still testing me. But just the fact that she comes inside the house to munch on her meal and then disappear back into the nighttime wilds of our canyons is amazing. She’s the Zen master and I respect her comfort zones, just as she tests mine.

Bonus video, this majestic bobcat, who came by that very next morning, illustrates what Floofles deals with surviving in the wilds, for what the vet estimated about 10 years of age.

Anyway, today’s morning meditation was a big help toward equanimity, the message really hitting home. Sometimes doing nothing is something.

Stay strong, dear Substack friends. You all help me through. I may not be good at accepting compliments. But I am a hugger. 🥰