Hoping a cheery Mudelf will erase the first, now corrected, 06:03 AM version of the poem...and thanks for so doing.

Gnu, you are such a gifted writer.

We're feeling the cold here, too, and the edge of desperation that is driven in with winter's leading edge of bitter cold. We are grateful to have an excellent and efficient woodstove to keep us warm, a winter's worth of firewood in the cellar, with water access down there as well. I'm especially grateful for a working washing machine, yet longing for working sinks and for a shower, at the same time.

Do read the latest, suddenly peaceful post from Linn/Bat Goddess regarding care for Tom/Curmudgeon. That is Love in action.
Curmudgeon In Hospital - Nov 2013 [update 7 Nov]

Sending encouragement and light to you all,

Maeve