Just Checking In

 "Just checking in..." 

I would get those messages from my first college roommate every so often when my father was dying. He was in Illinois and I was in Prince Edward Island, unable to go because of Covid restrictions. Just a quick message to let me know she was thinking of me, and there if I needed her. It was all I needed, though I didn't understand how much at the time. 

Losing a parent is never easy, losing a parent while living thousands of miles away and unable to be there is indescribable. It's hard to imagine that the next time I go home, he won't be there. He will never be there again. So, I try not to think about that. I feel like my grief is on hold, though it pops in and out at really weird and unexpected times (like driving down the road on the way to work).

Luckily though, I have good people in my corner. I know I am loved by so many, and so many prop me up on those less than lovely days. I have people checking in on me. Now, it's my turn. One of my friends is going through the same thing, saying that long goodbye to their beloved father. So, this morning, I sent that message, "Just checking in..."

How about you? Anyone you could send that message? Three simple words that can mean the world to someone. Three simple words that give someone the time and space to talk, to sigh, to say thank you, to know that they have someone in their corner. Just three simple words that can change someone's life. 

Just checking in...

Neighbors, Apple Trees, and Beautiful Mornings

I have an apple tree in my front yard that never fails to provide an abundance of apples. The problem is, you wouldn't want to just pick an apple and eat it. However, you can definitely use them to create a variety of apple dishes. My neighbor, Deb, came by about 3 years ago asking if she could pick some. I told her, not only could she pick some this year, but any year, and to help herself! This morning, while I was sitting in the quiet and enjoying my morning coffee, there was a knock on my door, which is odd in the daylight, let alone at 6 AM. I opened it, and there was Deb, with some apple jelly made from the apples on my tree. What a thoughtful gift!

I think today is going to be a good day.

#neighbours #appletrees #beautifulmornings