My dog is happy leaning his front legs over the back of the couch.

He looks out the window to the main road and smiles at the sunshine.

We just returned from him getting his nails cut and a good brush from our local groomer, Renee, at Paw Prints.

Saturday I treated myself at the Element’s Day Spa for my own pampering with an eyebrow wax, haircut and pedicure.

It is good to smile too as I sip my Tangerine Yogi hot tea in my, “Life is Good” mug with the message, “Do what you like. Like what you do.”

The flame of my Yankee Candle dances next to my laptop as I freewrite this blog. Perhaps I will play some music soon and slow dance in my kitchen.

Today is a cooler and breezy Autumn day. My Dad drove himself earlier this morning to his barber. She told him there were snow flurries for about five minutes in Lowville. While he enjoyed some time alone, my dog and I went for a walk in the village of Croghan. It was a winter coat, hat and gloves kind of stroll.

As my dog settles down for a nap on the couch, I feel peace and comfort in our warm home. He reminds me to care for myself better. Quiet moments with reflections. I appreciate him because he always senses when I need him closer with more cuddles on my lap and gazes into my soul.

This period in my life I honor the people whom I am close with. It is a slower paced time for reflecting, showing daily gratitude, growing and continued healing.

Tonight my Dad and I will talk and share stories over the dinner table with stuffed shells I prepared the other day. The tomato sauce is homemade from when Dad and I canned this past summer.

The evenings become dark now by five o’clock. I have accepted going to bed earlier. My longer nights of sleep– invite more time to dream again. I pray for others and myself as I fall asleep and when I wake to a new day.

Blessings my friends and family!

11/12/2024–Jennifer S. Churchill