Even though the kids didn’t have school yesterday, I naturally woke up early, as did my youngest. We slipped into a quiet morning rhythm together, tackling a bit of organizing in the craft room before settling into some hands-on creating.

The morning chores followed: I fed the animals, gave the sourdough starter its daily attention, and checked on the plants to see who was thirsty. I also moved the white chicken chili—frozen flat, just the way I like it—into the storage freezer, and moved the prepped beef and broccoli from the fridge to the main freezer. Then, finally, I made myself a much-needed cup of coffee and took a breath.

Later, I hung a new jewelry organizer in my bedroom and took time to sort through my pieces. So many memories are wrapped in those little things—gifts, keepsakes, pieces tied to moments and places I’d almost forgotten until I held them in my hands again.

Midday, I got ready to meet someone new for coffee. We’d never met in person before, but it was an easy, open conversation. We talked over our drinks for over an hour, and before we parted, we’d already made plans for tea and crochet next week. It was my first time out with a friend since my friend Valerie passed, and while there was some bittersweetness in that, there was also warmth and hope.

Back home, I cleaned up the kitchen and started on something I’ve been wanting to try again: making yogurt from whey I’d frozen in tablespoon-sized cubes before we moved here. I popped them out of the easy release ice cube tray, mixed everything up, and hoped for the best. (I’ll let you know if it worked!)

Dinner was simple—just leftovers—but satisfying. I headed to bed early so I could be up in time to transfer the yogurt to the fridge.

It wasn’t a flashy day, but it was full of life and connection, and that’s more than enough.