Happy New Year!

Good News Today, I took down the Christmas tree. Tom took the tree downstairs to the tree recycling dumpster.  I gathered up all the holiday paraphernalia into its big blue plastic bin and stowed it in our shed. Years ago, my parents would put up the tree only a few days before Christmas, but then keep it up until January 6. I think I keep to the January 6 routine because it gives me an opportunity to think about my mom and dad–a good idea on this cold, gray, and rainy afternoon. On this Epiphany, I am also enjoying thinking about Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night or What You Will, which is one of my favorite plays. Right now, I can just about laugh aloud thinking about Malvolio’s yellow cross-gartered stockings.

Yesterday, I planted a little pot of dill, some native southern sundrops (Oenotera fruticosa) and common golden alexanders (Zizia aurea). Good gardener that I am, I have a so-so record on successfully starting tiny seeds in winter. I keep planting as an act of faith that spring will come.

On Monday evening, my alma mater, the University of Michigan, will play in the football national championship (January 8, 2024). I hope my team wins, but I plan on enjoying the game whether we prevail or not.

Other News Today, I remember the insurrection of January 6, 2021. I don’t remember this as  just a news item. I remember this as a personal assault. I may live across the Potomac River from D.C., but, still, this was an attack on my city, my government, and my beloved country. Three years ago my (formerly) robust political and social idealism sustained a wound that has not yet fully healed. Enough of that for now.  What am I–at 74 years old–to do this year? I will vote, I will sign petitions, I will write, and I will support those who would protect our civil society, our Constitution, and justice for all people. Also, I will continue to understand that if someone tells me that the sky is green and the grass is blue, reality will let me know that the sky remains blue and the grass green.  I wish you all a good year.