Linn, I am reminded of a dear friend who spoke with me about a dream she had several weeks after her brilliant and fabulously curious scientist spouse died of pituitary cancer. In her dream, he appeared in the form of a sphinx, both flying and swimming through the cosmos, a delighted smile on his face at the prospect of new territory to explore.

maeve, I often imagine some of the little juncos and white throated-sparrows at my winter feeders spent the summer at your place.

Dean, are you home now?

Nigel, in a little bit, check your pm's.

I baked a fresh apple cake, redolent with cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves, and wonderfully moist, with a carmelized buttermilk glaze. Just freed it from the tube pan and it is here in the galley. Fresh pot of coffee made, tea bags and hot water out, (yes, that is a bottle of fine cognac on the sideboard for those so inclined.) Come on into the mess as you have time. Maybe a little caroling around the table?