It is as if I have bought into the worldwide, or at least nationwide malaise of the end of 2012, the start of 2013. That's about how long it's been since my last appearance here. Do you look for reasons for how you feel--something in the air, something beyond your personal space? I do.
There's the personal/political that always envelops me. There were so many things pleasureable in December 2012. Introducing two granddaughters to the idea of giving to others as a way to mark the New Year. We spent a December Saturday night looking at the possible animals that could go from Mercy Corps to help families in other parts of the world.
Elie was convinced she was getting her very own sheep. That's a four year old. Zoe, always the older, clarifying sister, explained otherwise. Later the two of them visited our retirement community which surprised me with a screening of the original "Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs" film. Elie was only momentarily frightened by the Wicked Queen, and probably the menacing music. Then enjoyed it along about 20 other children.
Family--I am very fortunate-- was a soothing distraction from Hurricane Sandy and the gun violence here in Portland and in Connecticut. Stunned by all that, it turned out that sulfa medication was part of the reason for my two-week lethargy. I'm beginning to return to a more energetic feeling. And school started again!