I got up REALLY early today, which I love. My clock said 4AM but we all know it was really 5. Welcome to the biannual time change everybody (except for those of you in Arizona)! I’ve already made a fire and put the bedding in to wash and now I’m writing to you. See why I love this?
I’ve been writing quite a bit lately about my life being very limited because I’ve been sick (see previous post An Antidote for Pain). And, as a direct result of that, I have found great pleasure in absolutely the last place I could have ever imagined: WALMART for goodness sake! I’ve NEVER liked going to Walmart. Aside from it being politically incorrect and about as fashionably hip as the inside of Finn’s mouth, it’s always been one of my least favorite chores (I’ve only gone to get some pet items and cleaning supplies, I promise).
But Walmart is in Espanola, the closest “big” city to Truchas and, since I’ve been sick, I’ve needed to go time and again to get various prescriptions. Because I don’t get out much these days, Walmart has become something of an adventure for me–my new version of an exciting road trip in fact–a high point in my days and weeks. And, remarkably, as I’ve explored its shelves with this new point of view and some curiosity, I have discovered something truly wonderful–a remarkably good rice pudding! Really. I’m not kidding.
It is called “Senor Rico” and its packaging looked small and local to me, but it’s made, in fact, in Ohio. Go figure. It’s now become a staple in my life and I am never out of it (unless the store is, which they sometimes are).
It’s my new comfort food and I won’t deny myself (I’ll be milking this being sick thing for months and months I’m thinking– may as well since it’s the only fun part of it).
So, here I go with the lesson in all of this (you knew it was coming, right?): when we accept what is, and open ourselves to the new with an open heart and mind, we will always (and I really don’t think this is an over statement here) find something worthwhile. Like my rice pudding.
But now the sun has risen …
… and light is streaming into the house.
I’ve already taken a walk and had coffee and it’s time to feed the dogs, another one of my small (great) pleasures. All three of my guys were starving when they came to me (see previous posts A Three Legged Man of the West, Night Skye and Rescue Dog: Meet Finn (Survivor)) and I never get tired of the sound of all of them, heads to their bowls, contentedly eating the fresh chicken I make them, mixed with kibble. Finally, I believe, they all trust that this meal is just one of many more to come, guaranteed. And there’s plenty of joy to be found in that.
Love to you all,
Jeane
I am glad that you found joy in rice pudding. It is amazing that you wake up so early, even when you are not that well. Beautiful picture of sunrise. Take care.
Well, bear in mind that, these days, I go to bed at 8PM after having napped on the couch much of the day 🙂 still, this was early for me. So happy you’re enjoying the blog. Thanks for letting me know.
Your body needs lots of rest. It is good to listen to one’s body and give it what it wants. As I have been struggling with going to sleep and rise up early, I find it admirable that you wake up early :-).
Yes, indeed it does, Laura. And I am listening with keen ears. I adore getting up early, even since I’ve been sick.
and did you make any new friends at WAlmart? One of the best places to socialize in the local regional
Lots and lots of nice people there for sure and plenty of time to chat in the long lines.