living seasonally


Hello dear dear friends.  Gosh it has been awhile since I wrote.  Every day I make an attempt to write something and wind up closing my computer.  It's such a private time in my life and yet I know from the outpouring of love I've received from you all, you guys do care about what is happening here.   So let's get up-to-date, shall we?

We have good and bad days still.  I wish there were more good ones but that isn't how it is.  Living in reality isn't easy.  Larry is on hospice and as scary as that sounds, it's a blessing.  Hospice nurses are angels sent directly to us to help us through these confusing and sometimes unbearable days.  It is such a relief to have someone to rely on 24/7.  No more cold, sterile hospitals.



One of the things I've been reading about and adopting into my life is living seasonally.  I suppose we all to some extent already do it but I've really immersed myself.  In a nutshell, it is moving, eating and sleeping with the season.  It is a beautiful way to live and I wish I'd started sooner.  But it's never too late.



There is a beauty to having to submit to the rhythm of this season. I am up very early and go to bed very early.  I bundle up each day and go for a walk and truly take in the beauty of the moment. Whether it is the foliage or birdsong, I notice it all.




I am also eating with this season.  Lots of roasted root vegetables in soups and stews simmering on the stove.  Citrus is in abundance in my neighborhood so I've been eating lots of oranges, lemons and grapefruit. 

Enough about me.  I'd love to hear what you are up to.  What season are you are living in and what do your days look like?

xo







110 comments

  1. Dear Janet, you are living through your present circumstance with such grace. I'm pleased that you and Larry are having the benefit of excellent hospice care. Sending you my love, Rosemary.

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  2. Living in the season of the year and of life. The groups providing hospice care can be so wonderful, so caring and so comforting. I am glad you have Larry home and have that help. I imagine that even with that help, and your capacity to find peace, these days are so hard. Sending you love. xoxox.

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  3. Glad you are able to drop in. Prayers continue.
    Living with seasons is a great idea. I read an interesting book or excerpt years ago but have been unable to find source again.
    Fortunately I took a few notes !
    Sleep patterns vary and so should foods. With everything available always in grocery stores,I have found people no longer know what foods are in season . Of course this varies by region of country you live in, but I feel we should eat seasonally and locally as much as possible. Just makes sense to me on some level.
    Would love to hear more about this concept and what you have learned when you are able to share. Hugs,Connie

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  4. Hi Janet,
    I hear you. I know that when my hope for certain things has been replaced by bowing to what is, I have experienced courage and acceptance, at times, than I could imagine. I became so aware. I was also changed by the experience and a time came when I no longer needed the same things. All good thoughts are with you. If this blog or comment section becomes obsolete, know that I will be grateful for having been a part of the circle you opened, when you started this exchange some years ago. Be well. Jean

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  5. Janet, I am so sorry. It is such a relief when our loved ones are in good hands.

    Living sesonally: the older I get, the more I appreciate the things that have a set date and the traditions that follow. Christmas, easter, midsummer, the summer holiday, All Saints Day, Mardi Gras, the birthdays in the family, the strawberry season, when the first locally grown aspargus is sold.
    It gives some kind of structure to life when everything around me is unpredictable and sometimes scary. I also enjoy going to garden centers and enjoy whatever flowers or plants that are in season. It gives me great pleasure and a sense of calm.
    I have been reading your old blog posts for inspiration this week and your archives are such a treasure! Thank you for everything you have shared with us over the years and for making your blog such a sensible and calm place to visit.

    Sending much love to you and Larry!

    /Bea

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  6. I’m so glad to hear from you..you’ve both been on my mind and in my prayers. I’m glad you have good people to rely on at this time. Living in Southern California, we have so many challenges with Nature. My family, including my horse had to evacuate the Woolsey fire. My horse is still in a temporary facility for at least another week. We drive through LA traffic every morning to check on her and walk/ride. The fire burned right to our property line, then stopped. ����. Now we have the rains to deal with. California is not for sissies ��. I like your concept of living Seasonally..I’ve tried to do that with the foods we eat and just being aware of how each season “feels” , and what gifts She brings. I wish you well and may you find Peace .

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  7. Along these lines I recently purchased but have yet to read two books by Cliff Seruntine - Seasons of the Sacred Earth and The Wildwood Way.

    I am sorry to hear you have reached the time when Larry requires hospice care, but am also glad you have assistance and that he and you are able to be home. You continue to be an inspirational role model as you traverse through this time.

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  8. Janet- you are simply awesome! You have inspired me so much over the years and I will be forever grateful. Living seasonally sounds so nourishing and something that I will definitely be researching. Sending so much love to you, Larry, and your family. Wishing you comfort during this difficult time.

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  9. Dearest Janet, you and Larry are always in my prayers. I have come to realize that living through hard times with peace and grace is such a hard thing to do and I have always admired you for being able to...as much as you can. I'm grateful that you have some help. We're working out a few struggles here and I've felt quite displaced lately, but I always try to lean to what comforts me....light, warmth, the changing of the seasons, the garden flowers.....you always have my shoulder. Hugs to you and dear Larry. ❤

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  10. God bless you both. I am glad you find comfort in the seasons and all of nature. Prayers to you.

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  11. Sending love your way.
    I moan about winter and the cold and wet it brings, but I love it for its different pace and the fact I can focus on other things. Also the wet damp days make me appreciate the sunshine so much more when it comes.

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  12. Sending love and prayers to both of you and your family. ❤️

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  13. Dear Janet. Loving Larry during this time will be a gift in your life that you will treasure forever. I am grateful that you dropped in to update us who peek in on your life and genuinely feel that we have some right to know how you are doing. I know that we do not have any rights. What I have learned on my own grief journey is that the world shifts. You stay in one place and the world shifts around you. I hope that you can accept the shift and remember the love and joy. I believe that those who work hospice care are true angels. I send all positive thoughts to you and Larry and gratitude.

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  14. Janet,
    I am happy you are finding ways to handle the stress and sadness that goes hand in hand with a loved one being ill. One of your readers said it well, the grace you show through this time is a great example for us all. Blessings to you and your family.
    Karen

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  15. My prayers are with you and Larry, oh how kind of you to come and share with us...

    <3 Amelia

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  16. So glad you have the blessings of hospice care. Wishing you both good days and peace.

    Thinking of you and sending virtual hugs from Canada,

    Rebecca

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  17. Dear Janet. Thank you so much for checking in to let us know how you are and to continue to inspire and instruct even in the most difficult of times. I too have been reading through your archives and am treasuring all the nuggets of wisdom you have shared. You have a wholehearted circle of readers that feel like family which I hope bring you courage and strength as you live with dignity and grace through what must be the worst days of your life. Stay strong and take good care of yourself. I pray for you and Larry every day without fail. XO

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  18. Dear Janet, it is so like you to consider your readers as you travel this difficult journey. I have a quote (among many) that I saved after losing my son: "At some point you just have to let go of what you thought should happen and live in what is happening." You seem to be doing just that - remarkably well. May love and peace carry you both through.

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  19. The beauty of the moment- that is powerful and brave. Love and prayers.

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  20. Janet..thank you for aharing youe most personal life w us. We so care what happens, so thank you. You are right. Hospice is a gift.
    Winter is still in vontrol where I'm from.
    Northern Michigan has tona of snow still. But the sun shine and light makes it a pleasant. Peace to you in your daily routine Janet

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  21. Hi Janet ~ Just want you to know that I am praying for you and thinking of you and Larry often. I doubt we will ever meet but I think of you as a friend and there are obviously others that feel the same way. You have a whole community of virtual "friends" - You are loved and we are here for you.

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  22. Oh Janet, my heart goes out to you. Praying for peace for you and Larry during this difficult TIME.
    XOXO

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  23. Words seem hollow during a time like this. We hope for the best, knowing things don’t always go that way. For a little distraction I will tell you about our winter in Northern California. We are having a real winter up here, not like the passed few years. The mountains near us have over 500 inches of snow, yep 41 feet and adding each day. Last week we got 10 inches of rain in 3 days which is causing flooding down in the Valley. A sign of Spring today. A large flock of robins descended on my holly tree, eating every berry in sight. They eat seasonal too. Every year around this time they show up and feast for a day or two. My thoughts of comfort are with you and Larry. Hugs from another Janet

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  24. I'm so very sorry, Janet, and admire you so much. Even in the midst of heartbreak, you manage to inspire. Love to all of you. xo (Here in Michigan we are still getting very cold weather and snow. No sign of spring yet.)

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  25. I think of you and Larry often and send loving thoughts. My husband had surgery for prostate cancer three weeks ago and the healing process has been slow and painful at times. They are saying everything is clear and we can only hope that holds true. Times like this do make you appreciate the simple things in life.
    We moved to Florida five years ago so I’ve lost all sense of seasons. It is strawberry time here in FL and they are delicious. I still find myself craving and making comfort foods like vegetarian cabbage soup, roasted cauliflower and oatmeal with dates and walnuts. The more changes I face in life the more I seek familiar things that bring comfort.
    Take care

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  26. Just adding to the previous praying for peace. Living in central MN we do live seasonally and try to appreciate what each brings. Some more successfully than others. With kindness & care

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  27. Hi Janet, sending light love and angels to you and Larry. Bernadette

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  28. Oh Janet, I am so sorry to hear about Larry. I know this last year must have been so difficult for you but yet you kept a brave face and still kept your blog going, even if it wasn't as frequent I know your readers appreciated it....I agree that hospice nurses are angels. I am glad that they are giving you both some comfort and that Larry can be at home with you. I have been thinking of you both many times throughout the day the last few weeks. Not much going on here, enjoying spending time with my granddaughter...she is very active and has quite the personality, she turned two today! She so loves Tony, she calls him G-pa.

    Linda
    xoxo

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    1. Not sure why my comment showed up "unknown" think I fixed it now? :o/

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  29. Dear Janet, May a feeling of peace and calm greet you everyday, and may all of the positive feedback and support from all of us who admire you stand beside you and keep you strong during this difficult time. I suspect that many of your readers have been through a similar experience and we can relate; I know I have. I am so thankful that you can be with Larry now; you will treasure that. May God bless you today and always. Judith

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  30. I lost my husband unexpectedly 6.5 years ago & then my oldest son just 2 years ago after a very brief illness. When my husband died I knew I had to find my new normal, for thinking only of the past was just too sad. Then I did it again after losing my son. It is possible to find peace in the midst of heartache, which you seem to have done. The pain is still there, but it becomes less of the focus of life.

    Love the living seasonally idea, although I too have more or less done that for about 30 years. I never close curtains at night, especially in the bedroom...this is so I will wake when it is dawn. This is much easier to do now that I am retired. Morning is my favorite time of day & I don't want to miss it if possible.

    I have just begun a project of turning my laundry room into a second bathroom...it's just me here, but when I have company it will be much easier on my guests. It is a daunting task at age 73 now, but I realized it's now or never. Eastern PA is still in the grip of winter, but I know spring & summer always come...then it's the garden that calls my name each day & I load up on my time outdoors whenever possible. That is where I am able to be the most at peace.

    I'm glad you have Hospice for the wonderful help they can provide...they are indeed earthbound angels. Godspeed to both you & Larry...

    Anita ~ the cabin on the creek
    ...all is grace!

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  31. Hospice nurses are awesome, truly inspiring people.

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  32. Janet thank you so much for the update, I've been thinking of you and hoping to see a post. Your grace just leaps off of the page, and the calm rhythm of your days must be just what you and Larry both need just now.
    I love your ideas on living seasonally and it seems to offer such contentment and acceptance.
    Here in Ontario it is real winter, quite cold and lots of snow and ice. I have to wear 900 layers for my walks but it is beautiful. Inside I'm cooking lots of soups and lighting candles and decorating with pillows like mad, trying to warm the nest I guess.
    Love to you both xx

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  33. I am so sorry there is not better news Janet. It is comforting that you do have someone to help you get through these difficult times. Thank you for keeping us informed and you must know that you have so many of us out there who hold you in their hearts. Here in the New York region winter is keeping her grip on us. Friday, Saturday and now today Monday I have awakened to considerable snow and the prospect of digging out once again. On the positive side I am still able physically do this and perhaps take a walk later on. And, I have been reading more books!
    Love, Darby

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  34. I have been learning that living in the present moment opens up a whole new world filled with peace and acceptance. I have missed your posts Janet, lovely pictures of your cottage !!
    Sending positive vibes your way.

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  35. Dear Janet,

    How gracious of you to check in with us at this truly sacred time for you and Larry. My heart is so full of prayers and love for you two as you continue to wind your way through this season in your lives. It brings me comfort to know you have hospice angels there attending you both.

    It has been a long gray winter here along the Wasatch front of the Salt Lake Valley. We have had steady small snow storms all winter long which we are grateful for as that is our water source. I love the winter season as it's an excuse to read books endlessly, drink hot coco and eat lots of soup. But there are stirrings of spring and I'm ready for the change. More light, more exercise after too much time sitting and coco drinking and the opportunity to get out in my small garden...I look forward to all of these.

    As there are earthly seasons so too are there humanly seasons. Those humanly seasons often come unexpectedly and one hopes when they come that one is somewhat prepared for the changes that can occur and can embrace them with grace, strength and oft times much needed courage. I do believe you have great courage, strength and grace Janet for the season you now find yourself in, rest assured you are not alone. May you feel of our love and strength at this time.

    I think you are amazing!

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  36. I have kept a journal my entire life and always been keenly aware of the seasons, even as a young child. But I think I truly began living seasonally 25 years ago. I swear I can feel the rhythm thrumming in my blood and I somehow attribute this to my Eastern European ancestors. Our winter on southern Vancouver Island was mild until February and then all hell broke loose. We had a week of snowstorms a few weeks ago, the remnants still remaining in shaded areas. Yesterday was clear and sunny but the wind was arctic. I had to buy a toque; fortunately it was priced on clearance. You and Larry are never far from my thoughts, and like all the others here, I hold you in my prayers and thoughts. I imagine you must somehow feel this surrounding you both. One of your other readers commented on your dignity and grace. You are an example to us all. I send love and hugs. Violet.

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  37. Sending love and sincere thoughts for more good days than bad. I'll share my one of my thoughts on living seasonally. I've always been an early to bed, early to rise person (my mom has always said I'd have made a great farmer), but as I've gotten older, I've noticed a real shift with the seasons, and in the fall/winter (such as it is, I'm in San Diego), I'm ready to call it a day around 8pm, sometimes earlier. I'm not oversleeping since most days I'm naturally up between 4 and 5, and in the last few years I've stopped trying to force myself to stay up later, even if I'm tucked in bed at 7:45pm. Next week when we change the time, my body will flip its switch and I'll start staying peppy longer, usually 10 or 10:30 but still waking at the same time. I'll hum along like that until fall and the time change again. I'm inching my way into retirement (working from home around 30 hours a week) and my schedule is my own. It's been wonderful to give in to my body's rhythms with no guilt! (Also, I never eat fruit out of season! I grew up with a variety of fruit trees and there is nothing like the anticipation of that first ripe apricot, peach or plum!)

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  38. Dearest Janet, it is such a testament to who you are that with all you have going on now, you still think of your devoted readers & want to know what's going on in our lives! I worked for Hospice for 11 yrs. & am so thankful you have the support of those dedicated angels. I loved reading about your living seasonally as I believe that gift was given to me by my dear Grandma when I was just a little girl in New York. My Grandma was a wonderful gardener, devoted to her rose garden & other flowers. She always taught me about the "magic" that was happening: a crocus pushing its way up through the snow, a deciduous tree that looked dead that was now blossoming with life again. She taught me so many lessons about gardening & life as well. In fact, I used part of her teachings to me for my mother's eulogy: That my mother's passing was her Autumn, but now her soul was in Springtime. I have been going through a terrible time of grieving myself & remembering my Grandma's simple, beautiful, timeless messages to me have been such a comfort.
    Janet, there is not a day that goes by that you & Larry are not in my thoughts & prayers. Another reader said it so well that we may never meet "in person" but we all share a friendship with you because of your beautiful spirit & kind, loving heart. I am sending you the biggest hug & lots of love. Katie from Huntington Beach

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  39. Simplicity is everything - it's all we have really. All the chasing we do - the unceasing want and desperate perfection we immerse ourselves in ... when all we need we have. I've wanted to live seasonally for decades and yet, it remains out of my reach. But I try. I love the thought of living according to our natural rhythms. SO simple, so elegant, so effortless, so happy. Janet, I send as I always do, love across the Atlantic for peaceful and sacred days.

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  40. I live just outside Boston and the weather has been cold for months. This season I am looking for rays of sunshine to warm the earth and melt the snow to give way for Spring. I look forward to long walks in the sun and warmth with my dog. As for food, I've really been into carbs. I made a Bourbon Spice Cake yesterday and I have had two pieces today and its only 2:00! I wish you strength, and comfort and a million moments with Larry. You are in my heart.

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  41. Hearing from you is the sweetest part of today. There's snow outside but also that fresh, earthy scent through which Spring speaks, "I'm nearby once again."

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  42. Sending love and prayers to both of you.

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  43. Dear Janet,
    I strive to live seasonally embracing the seasons of the year and the seasons of life.

    Yesterday, I walked on an almost-spring day with my husband and our six-year-old neighbor as he scootered. Today we woke up to lots of fluffy snow (in Connecticut).

    You are so loved by your readers and I am sure we all wish there was something we could do to help you.

    Wishing you peace, love, and comfort as you bring the same to your dear Larry.

    -Tisha

    .

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  44. You and your sweet husband were on my mind this weekend. I am at a loss for the words to describe how much I have been inspired by your home and connected to this journey you are on more recently. Your words and ideas seem so similar to my own. Sending hugs and good thoughts to you and yours daily.

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  45. Dear Janet.. I’ve read and loved your blog for a long while... I went thru cancer and hospice and the death of our beloved son.. only 41.. I’m so glad you can find moments of peace and beauty and carve out time to strengthen yourself.. blessings to you and your family... you’ll have what you need when you need it❤️

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  46. I have read your blog for years (enjoying it, learning from it), and never commented. I'm so sorry this has happened for you, and wish you all the best as you go forward. These are days of grace, I hear, and from what you have written here, it seems that you are treating them this way. All the best. Mary

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  47. Your blog, home and garden are special, because you are special. Even in this most heart breaking time you find beauty and grab on to the peace you find in simplicity. I am so glad Larry has you. With love.

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  48. Life changes in an instant...I recently commented that my husband had been diagnosed with cancer. After treatment he is showing good signs but treatment continues. This has a 50% recurrence rate....you learn to live with the uncertainty. New normal as people say. I think of you and yours every day and hope that every moment is calm and peaceful.
    On our side of the world we lack rain, but have floods up North. Fires that consume houses and forests and hot hot days that seem never ending. I long for the change of season that does not come just because the calandar says so.
    I long to dress in layers and feel the cold wind...
    You are so treasured
    Blessings to your family

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  49. Thank you for sharing this very personal and difficult time with all of us. You and Larry are very loved. I hold y'all close in my thoughts and heart. Sending love and light... xxojoan

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  50. Hello Janet, I am so sorry for everything that you are going through. My husband has an incurable cancer, and is also having some good (although not 'normal' good) days and lots of bad days. He has had 6 hospitalizations in the past several months. He has been through so much. From his first cancer in 2002, the second in 2004, then a stem cell transplant, and now this cancer which he has had for 4 years, but is now a stage 4. He/we consider the 15 years from the stem cell transplant a gift. But it doesn't make it any easier to try and face the inevitable, to which he was pretty close almost a year ago. He is still here, however it is getting pretty difficult to realize maybe that's not a good thing. There is a group on facebook for (actually several) cancer caregivers, where even just reading posts can be comforting. I am keeping you both in my prayers.

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  51. ♥ so very good to read a few words from your heart ♥
    my father is on hospice which at this point is 2x
    visit per week .. he's in a nursing home and i'm there
    6 out of 7 days. yes, angels to be certain..

    i'm listening to my body .. making choices that will
    continue helping rather than hindering health. lots of
    fresh local veggies along with bits of protein. staying
    away (giving it a try) from potatoes and meats
    {red & pork}, and beans.
    eating fish and chicken.
    finding i don't process meats well.
    nor beans though i love them!

    seeking peace in my day(s) ..
    and calm.

    blessings ♥

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  52. Deep peace to you as you navigate this time.

    The seasons are the backbone of our lives. It can be tricky to read them in some places (as in Miami, where I grew up) and easier in others (Oregon, where we're about to get more snow). I'm grateful that I live where I can put my feet on the ground, that I garden, that I have access to an amazing Farmer's Market, that I hear the birds ... grateful for all of it.

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  53. Blessings to those you love, and those that love you...no matter what season.

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  54. I wondered how things were going Janet as you have been quite quiet. I am sorry...my heart goes out to you.
    Hospice was wonderful when my sister and I could no longer take care of our mom at home....the nurses must be hand picked because they are very emathetic and as you say not unlike angels.

    Thinking of you...
    XO

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  55. It is so good to hear from you. I remember when we finally called Hospice in and what a blessing it was. Such loving support when I needed it the most. You are in my prayers as you travel this road. As far as what I am up to...grandbabies!!!!! 2 little boys that own my heart. They live 3 hours away so I visit quite often and count my blessings that I am able to rock little ones again. Life is never the same Janet but it can still be very, very good. Big hugs to you!

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  56. Dear Janet,
    Thank you for all the love you have given us.
    Its our turn to send love you and your family.
    Elena

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  57. Janet...it is so hard to know what to say except that you and Larry are wrapped in love. One of my dear friend's husband was on hospice all last year and it was painful and heart-wrenching to see what they both went through. But through it all...so much peace and love. xoxo

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  58. Dear Janet,

    Like your other readers, I am so sorry for what is happening to you, Larry and your family. Having hospice involved is such a gift and blessing. I hope it gives you and Larry much peace.

    We're deep in winter in WI. We set a record low temp yesterday: -10. The weather extremes force us to live in the season. I'm knitting all the time, and roasting sweet potatoes every day. It's good that you're eating roasted root veggies, soups and stews - they will offer some warmth and comfort during this sacred time.

    I think of you and Larry, and send prayers every day.

    Colleen

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  59. Living seasonally as you are doing more consciously seems like both a creation path and a welcome submission. I might follow suit and do the same. It makes sense.

    It's so good to hear from you Janet. Understand completely that a privacy envelope is what you and Larry both so much need now. I'm glad to know that the hospice angels are attending. It is a relief when living in reality like this is intensely felt. Been there.

    Your photos are lovely.

    Here isnt been end of summer warm with a heatwave last week but I managed to keep some flowers ( marigolds of several varieties) in bloom. Was it foolish to water these flowers twice daily during a heatwave? Somehow it seemed essential and this week I am enjoying the sight of the blooms. Early morning walks this week. Some cooler days.

    Thinking of you. E. xo

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  60. Dear Janet,

    This is not the outcome I was hoping for but I agree hospice workers are wonderful. I admire your strength and serenity during this time and I send love and prayers to both you and Larry.

    In Connecticut, we're crunching through about 10 inches of snow. This is a challenge as my dog had knee surgery during the holidays and she must be kept on a leash during the healing process. Winter is her favorite season so she is very upset with us! I am looking forward to spring. My thoughts are with you very often. Thank you for the update.

    Wendy

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  61. Dearest Janet thinking of you and Larry and sending lots of love xx

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  62. Dear Janet,
    You are an inspiring woman, even while you are going through such a difficult time. Thank you for taking your precious time to share with us. I’m sure that your words will comfort someone else going through similar pain. When I first read the title of your post, I was thinking about Seasons of Life, not nature. We really should embrace them both, shouldn’t we? And try to find joy where we can because seasons are fleeting. My prayers are that you feel a sense of peace in this season.

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  63. Such wise words Janet. I have had you and your husband in my thoughts. Hospice is wonderful. Good thoughts for more good days and fewer bad ones. I did a post on the collected look today and linked to your beautiful blog. Stay strong.

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  64. I've been reading your blog for several years now, can't remember how I found you but I was drawn to your little cottage. I think about you from time to time and wonder how you and your husband are doing and also say a little prayer for you!

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  65. Hi again, Janet. I was distracted in my first comment and forgot to say that last year I purchased Fiona Ferris' book, "How to be Chic In Winter" and found it a truly inspiring little guide for how to stay happy and true to yourself in the darker, colder part of the year. Staying strong and peaceful and grateful in our rainy season here in Vancouver has always been a challenge for me and usually I just plow through. This year I adopted her strategy and have taken much better care of myself and found that it made all the difference. I love that you're bundling up to walk and watch every day. I can only imagine how your heart and mind and spirit would be restored in the beauty of the outdoors. Love and hugs. xo .
    The Other Karen

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  66. so very good to hear from you ... think of you and yours often... and check on the blog weekly .... you are so right about Hospice... coming up on two years now that we lost my beautiful sister ... who was only 56 to cancer.....Hospice nurses are truly a God send....Prayers for you

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  67. Dear Janet,

    You have provided me with such inspiration for many years now with your blog. Your tender, cherishing heart comes through in so many of your posts. I have a lump in my throat right now, because I know that you and Larry are now in a season you did not predict. My wish for you both is you experience a similar sense of calm as my family did in the midst of the chaos and sadness. Hospice was so helpful for us, the once we were able to accept their offering. xo Julia

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  68. Janet, I've just read through all the previous comments, while melancholy music plays in the background, and I have a lump in my throat. What an outpouring of love and support for you and Larry! Truly beautiful. You are blessed to have so many people supporting you prayerfully in their hearts. I, too, will keep you and your family in my prayers.
    Claudia

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  69. You and Larry are in my daily thoughts and prayers, i rarely comment, but always look for a new post. This time with Larry is your story, and you will appreciate these memories later. I pray for peace for y'all.

    Seasons of life, as we get older, this is easier for us, I've noticed I have slowed down and I am more involved in the moment, the season, though being on the east coast, I am ready for spring, but can appreciate this season of rest before the outdoor season starts. I call this the season of soups. And breads. Dreaming of gardens. As always you are an inspiration, and whether you believe it or not, an example for us to follow. Hugs!!! Donna

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  70. ... I am so deeply sorry. And so inspired by your courage, and moved by the wisdom, beauty and love that is the person you are and the spirit you possess. You have found a way to live, that in its simplicity, offers a glimpse of the profound... a paring down of life to an essence, a purity, that in turn offers the deepest reservoir of strength, comfort and peace of all... sending prayers...Debbie

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  71. I love the idea of living seasonally. It has been a long winter here but I see small signs of buds..here Spring birds somewhere in the trees..and breathe in the fresh air whether cold or not. Praying for you and your family.

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  72. Janet . . . we truly do care about you and Larry. You are in our hearts daily.
    Always you bring to us what you have learned : living seasonally most recently. To share is one of friendship's loveliest gestures. From you we learn to be kind to ourselves and to one another. At present, in the most difficult of "seasons" in your personal life, I am confident this gift will carry you through.
    with love,
    Linda

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  73. Thinking of you and Larry tonight and praying these days are peaceful for you. I've dealt with Hospice twice and they are indeed angels.
    Spring is almost here. Flowers are blooming and the pollen is everywhere. My towns Flowertown Festival is in April and brings in people from all over. It's a fun weekend!
    Hang in there, my dear, we all love you. 💕

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  74. Hi Janet, it's Miranda from rural southern Illinois. I think of you and check your blog to see if you have written anything new from time to time. My current "season" of life is being a new mom to our now 12-month-old baby boy. Like you, I too and up early and to bed early. I am taking to heart your note about listening to the birds and soaking up the beauty of the moment. Too often I get frustrated and distracted from the beauty before my eyes. Lifting you and your dear husband up in prayer that you may have peace and comfort.

    For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. – Romans 8:38-39

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  75. Sending so much love through this comment, I have followed you since I saw a picture of your kitchen in 2009 or 2010 and I’m praying for Larry and you.
    Blessings

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  76. Dearest Janet,

    I am so sorry you are in this tender place of loving farewell. From personal experience, I know that hospice offers so much help and comfort.

    Just as I came through my second bout with breast cancer, my husband was diagnosed with colon cancer. Our lives will come to an end just like all others before us. Through it all, we know that we are sojourners on
    this earth. Our true citizenship is in heaven.

    Jesus said in John 14: "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in Me. My Father's house has many rooms. If that were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?"

    May you find peace, comfort and assurance in these words. I look forward to that place where all tears will be washed away.

    Thinking of you with love,
    Isabella

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  77. Janet . . . hello. It's Linda returning to share a chuckle about seasons. Thought of you as I put my head into the wind on Friday morning to brace against the chill only to have the day evolve into summer by mid-afternoon . . . Saturday, continuing lovely sunshine but cooler. Sunday, much cooler. This morning a flurry of a few wet snowflakes mixed with a mist of rain and dropping temps. Here in the mid-Atlantic region, March that practical joker provides a playful jumble. Through it all, the mini and regular daffodils, hellebores and snowdrops prove their durability and grace, just as you do for us each and everyday.
    Love to you and Larry -
    Linda

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  78. Sending my prayers at a difficult time.

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  79. Prayers for you this morning 💕

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  80. You and your family are in my heart and thoughts.

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  81. Just a short note to say that I think of you and Larry daily. Spring is trying hard to arrive here in Utah and I guess yesterday it was official but Mother Nature has a way of playing tricks on us so more snow is always a possibility. A reminder to me of what I can't control and that one must find joy in possibilities and the simple things that make up one's daily life. I hope you both are feeling peace, love and support from those near and dear to you. Many of us are doing our best to give those things to you from afar.

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  82. Just a short note to say that I think of you and Larry daily. Spring is trying hard to arrive here in Utah and I guess yesterday it was official but Mother Nature has a way of playing tricks on us so more snow is always a possibility. A reminder to me of what I can't control and that one must find joy in possibilities and the simple things that make up one's daily life. I hope you both are feeling peace, love and support from those near and dear to you. Many of us are doing our best to give those things to you from afar.

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  83. Sending kind thoughts and love your way. I wish you peace.

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  84. Janet,

    My best thoughts sent out to you and Larry during this time.

    I know this season of life too.

    Ann

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  85. I read your blog from time to time and enjoy it. I am sorry about Larry. There is however a blessedness in having a chance to hold hands, say I love you, and to say goodbye. To help someone on their next journey is a gift.

    What is life? It is the flash of a firefly in the night. It is the breath of a buffalo in the winter time. It is as the little shadow that runs across the grass and loses itself in the sunset. Chief Crowfoot. May you find in spite of your troubles that this is a blessed time, a time of grace. Ann

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  86. Dearest Janet, continuing to send love & healing thoughts to you & your husband every day. I hope all the peace & gentleness that you send out will come back & surround you & yours. Sending love & a big hug to you both.

    Katie from Huntington Beach

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  87. Thinking and prayers for you and Larry today. 💖💖💖

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  88. Sending love to you both, together with blossom, daffodils and sometimes, blue skies.

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  89. Peace to you and your loved ones

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  90. Dear Janet, I have thought of you so much recently. My hope is that you find a moment of joy, even if, it's just a moment, in each day you are with Larry
    sending love and a little prayer, Kelley

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  91. Hi Janet. Just me saying one more time, in case you are still reading, that you are in my thoughts and prayers daily. I read something from your archives every day for my personal encouragement and to remind me of how deeply you have touched my life and to remember to pray. Stay strong! You are loved. XO

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    1. thank you karen. i do pop in from time to time for inspiration from you all. i'm pretty consumed each day with the job at hand. thank you everyone. xoxo janet

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  92. Wishing you both peace at this time

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  93. Just read your Fathers Day post about Larry. So beautiful, made me cry. I know these are hard days. Praying for both of you and your family. Peace and love ❤

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  94. It's hard to believe but in the future you will look back at this journey and consider it a blessing. This time together is like no other. Big hugs!

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  95. Letting you know I'm thinking of you and Larry.

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  96. I was just thinking of you and wanted to check in. I pray that there is peace in the chaos for you and your husband.

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  97. Dearest Janet, Sending you loving thoughts. You & your Larry are in my daily thoughts & prayers. Love you,

    Katie from Huntington Beach

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  98. Checking in and sending you my best wishes. My thoughts and prayers have been with you - J.

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  99. Sending LOvE, hugs and prayers!!!!

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  100. Dear Janet,

    I think of you and Larry often, and send prayers.

    Colleen

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  101. Thinking of both of you.

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  102. From time I find myself thinking of you and Larry. It is so good to know that your living your life as it comes. May God bless you both.

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  103. I think of you and Larry everyday. There is a full moon tonight and I can still see the tops of the heavily snow covered mountains. I didn't get everything done on my list today but I got the most important things completed, I feel at peace. I hope that you have moments or a moment each day when you feel at peace. I know each day you are getting the most important things done.

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  104. Hi Janet. Just me again saying "Happy Easter" to you and all your family. May the peace of God that passes understanding sustain you guys. I hope the sun is shining and the birds are singing and the flowers are blooming. I'm thinking of you and sending love and prayers. XO .

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  105. Hi Janet, I have read and enjoyed your blog for years, but I have never commented. Something was tugging at my heart strings today..... I pray for peace and comfort for you and Larry. May God bless you both.

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  106. Thinking of you and leaving love here for you to find, Sarah from the UK Xx

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  107. beautiful your images.
    Nice to meet your blog.
    janicce.

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kindness is never out of style.

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