I like to look out the window. I have spent freely so much of my time doing this, and sometimes it strikes me how little I know of the various things other people can do. I can’t play bridge. I don’t play tennis. All those things that people learn, and I admire, there hasn’t seemed time for. But what there is time for is looking out the window.
— Alice Munro
— Alice Munro
Still recovering from ankle tendon surgery, which means I'm spending a good deal of time sprawled on the sofa like an overturned beetle, boot-clad, bandaged leg above my heart. #Metamorphosis, anyone? It's a lengthy recovery process, and I won't bore you with the details. But I'm grateful for the lessons available to me in this period of enforced stillness.
Mindfulness. A deeper appreciation for my physical body, inclusive of all its abilities and limitations. Peace in the moment, and joy in every hobbling step.
It'll be a while before I'm able to return to some of my favorite activities: gardening, hiking, dipping my toes in the ocean and (vroom vroom) taking my Nancy Drew roadster for a spin. But hey, I have a wicked-fast knee scooter, so go me!! And my camera's got a fantastic zoom lens, which helps bring my garden indoors.
I captured these photos through a window screen, balancing teetering on my scooter all the while.
Mule deer! In the wilds of Orange County, who knew?!?
Grace. Beauty. The element of surprise.
These, the gifts that come of shifting my gaze. Going inward. Looking out my window.
Heal quickly! And thanks for sharing the view.
Thanks, Jenn! Time is a great elixir, as are patience and perseverance. It’s a daily experiment, in which I don’t always get the proportions right. 🙂
Thanks also for coming to the window with me. Hope your view is equally beautiful.
Yay for the grace you found through the window. Patience is hard, full of ups and downs. I’m glad you’re finding some beauty every day, and hope it doesn’t seem too long before you’re on two good feet digging in dirt. xo
Sorry to be anonymous! The above comment was from me (I know you thought it was Alice Munro…)
I love that it was you, Jeannine. I always enjoy the view from your window seat and appreciate that you stopped by for a visit. It’s said that the road to a friend’s house is never long–so true. And it’s equally true that time spent with a cherished friend goes by in a flash. I can’t think of a better way to pass the (minutes, hours, days…) until I’m on my feet again. xo
Wow! That’s some view!
Hope you’re feeling better soon!
Right? We are lucky, in that we are surrounded by beautiful hillside views (with native vegetation) on all but the east side of our property, where our uber-fabulous neighbors live. I can’t believe it myself sometimes. *pinches self*
Thanks for the well-wishes, Barb. Hope everything is well in Tulip Country. 🙂