I uploaded the first draft of my literature review this morning after finishing the reference section. Then, I did my favorite Saturday thing…puttered. I cleaned the kitchen, cooked sweet potatoes to mash for the freezer, and then realized I had all the fixings for a frittata including eggs from my own chickens and rosemary from the herb garden. Added mushrooms and sliced ham and cheese on top. It was yummy, if I do say so myself. Complimented with biscuits–the frozen kind, I’m afraid, but still pretty good with butter and honey jelly.

Now, it’s afternoon, and I want to get back to the UVA/VT game and some crocheting, but I just wanted to say aaah…I have had a week off at home, writing but also puttering. The house is decorated for the holidays, there is new stuff in the freezer from turkey stock to pumpkin muffins to cookies, and I even cleaned up the attic a bit. Trying to get organized and reduce clutter for the winter. I even switched chairs in the living room since Zuzu, our “new” white dog, likes my LLBean mission chair. I just feel relaxed after some pretty stressful weeks. Next week isn’t quite as free, especially since I do my oral comps defense on Wednesday afternoon. But there’s no long distance driving so I’m happy.

What a blessing…I took long walks the past two mornings, listening to Tom Brokaw’s new book about the Sixties, Boom! The leaves are still pretty although we are getting on the back side of the fall colors. There is a crispness to the air, like biting into a cold, tart apple. The fire in the stove feels warm and inviting and the dogs and I just hang out in the living room. Remember the peace and quiet, the sense of restfulness, and carry it in your heart.