Last week, before the temperature went down to minus 15 C, I was walking along the pathway behind some of the homes in my subdivision. There were ducks swimming and resting in the creek (officially named Munson’s Slough) and along the banks of the creek. All of a sudden one duck started following me; thenContinue reading “Duck parade”
Author Archives: toffeereflection
Foo
Foo has been a member of my son’s family for almost 15 years. On Tuesday Foo joined his best friend, Toffee, to whom I said a tearful and painful goodbye almost 4 years ago. Saying goodbye to a pet was as difficult for me as losing a family member. When asked if I will getContinue reading “Foo”
Before Sunrise
Yesterday my friend and colleague called to let me know that she had experienced a mini-stroke, and would need me to help out with some of the work we do together. We have been colleagues for many years, and work well together. We don’t socialize, but we often find time to have deep conversations eitherContinue reading “Before Sunrise”
Rest
Several weeks ago I tried to write. My plan was to get my life in order and re-establish a routine. My life is not in order, and my plan is still in the pre-planning stage; that stage where I know there needs to be a plan but nothing stays in my mind long enough toContinue reading “Rest”
Contemplating life when others die
Sunday morning I had the privilege to stay home and look after my son’s two dogs. It took a while for them to feel comfortable in my home, and I had to bribe them with early Christmas presents. Here, Gia is showing off her new toy to the little dog that just walked past. SheContinue reading “Contemplating life when others die”
Mimosa
I bought a plant. It’s very much like me. When the leaflets are touched they fold inward; when the branches are touched they droop. It is hypersensitive to touch and movement. This past Sunday afternoon two young men came to the house to rehearse for an upcoming concert. It was a wonderful afternoon, with hardContinue reading “Mimosa”
In memoriam
Fifteen years ago yesterday I married a man who loved me more than I could ever ask for. He had total trust in me, and loved me unconditionally. I doubt if that opportunity would ever come again. At his memorial service his best friend quoted in the eulogy: ‘Tis better to have loved and lostContinue reading “In memoriam”
Blank pages
This morning I stayed home to participate in The Hatch, a monthly gathering of over 200 people who are connected through their interest in journalling. Many people, like the founder, Suleika Jaouad struggle with chronic illness; others have joined (as I did) shortly after its start during the Covid shutdown. Today I chose to writeContinue reading “Blank pages”
Stand-off
Early Monday morning I sat in my living room watching the sun rise, and was witness to a scene straight out of National Geographic! The doe and the coyote (so large I at first thought it must be a wolf) were engaged in some sort of stand-off. Even though there is a strict rule inContinue reading “Stand-off”
Boundaries vs Walls
Many epiphanies happen in the mornings, either while gardening or in the shower. Yesterday, while in the shower, I came to the realization that I have created a boundary-monster. My boundaries involving a relationship are so solid and inflexible that they have become high walls. I started to search articles and videos that explained theContinue reading “Boundaries vs Walls”
Reflections 