My quiet time right now is holed up in my office with my corgi Emily, just back from surgery. She's got a 4-5 in. incision to show for it and is still very groggy, so I'm keeping her company, while shielding her from her male pack mates. And I'm so happy to have her back home, safe and sound.

The sun has just dropped below the western hills, the air is soft and mild, with a slight breeze blowing. I should be out there mowing...my tractor has been disabled for 2 weeks and I'm awash in a ratty sea of green, but this evening I'm sitting with Emily and it's very serene.

Sometimes, in a busy time like spring,with so much to do, and the birds all setting such good examples by being so noticably busy, it's nice to have a good external rationale for just sitting quietly and enjoying the minutes slipping by.