I started today with continued work organizing my journals and then headed off the mountain. As I drove the wooded lanes of Clifftops, I marveled the gift of a beautiful day and the dappled colors of fall.

I realized as I meandered that these days I'm especially happy when I know David and Olivia are together, which they are this weekend. They are so much in love... it just makes me so very very happy. This exceptional happiness levels the field of any concerns I encounter. Their happiness is my happiness - a beacon of so much joy for me.

*****

I drove off the mountain for a transplant evaluation requirement. It's been two years since my last mammogram so I scheduled one for today. I then did some grocery shopping. Then I drove back up the mountain for my flu shot.

This may not seem like much, but I was tired by the time I got home. I was grateful one of my neighbors was there to help me carry my packages indoors.

*****

Among the packages was a box from Clifton, Virginia. That's where Olivia and her family live... and where I plan to spend Christmas. Yay! It's such a beautiful, sweet little town - beautiful and sweet like her family.

Much to my delight, the box held a gift from Libby Fritsche, Olivia's mother. There was a gorgeous ceramic jar painted in orangey fall colors splashed with swirls of blues and whites and yellows. It's utterly charming and precious with leaves and flowers resembling asters. It's a masterpiece... and I feel certain Libby created it.

There's a photo below. It's truly a treasure!

I've also included an aerial shot so you can see the jar brimming with good wishes. The first folded paper I lifted out (in case you can't read it) read as follows:

"A quiet secluded life in the country, with the possibility of being useful to people to whom it is easy to do good, and who are not accustomed to have it done to them; then work which one hopes may be of some use; then rest, nature, books, music, love for one's neighbor - such is my idea of happiness."

- Leo Tolstoy

The box also included a lovely letter from Libby - so warm and welcoming regarding Christmas and wedding planning. She expressed such kindness and enthusiasm and hospitality.

Thanks ever so much, Libby. I truly believe your gift of wishes is one of the dearest gifts I've ever received - that and my quilted apron Olivia made.

I pinch myself with our good fortune. David and I are marrying into a remarkable family.

*smiling*




Jar of Good Wishes




A view of all the good wishes!