Holiday Lights

It's raining, but the reindeer don't care. They are grazing on our neighbor's lawn and doing a fine job of lighting it. Actually, each one is animated and moves ever so slowly.

It was almost dark when I headed downstairs to discover what I already knew, Mr. Fun is napping. So I quietly slipped into my winter coat. Put my house keys in my pocket, silently opened the front door, and just started walking, not sure what I'd find outdoors. Many of the houses had not yet turned their lights on.

The neighborhood contained a quiet peacefulness that almost felt like magic. I'm sure it helps that a light rain has been falling all afternoon and everyone is in and few cars drove past as I was out walking. If it wouldn't have worried Mr. Fun (if he even woke-up), I would have walked for several more blocks. We need to walk the neighborhood more. We haven't done that much since Bob dog has been gone.

This evening I could have walked for a long long time . . . trying to process some thoughts tonight. I've mentioned my good buddy Peg previously in my journal. She and I have traveled together. She and her hubby Scott are dear friends of ours, have been for years. Peg's older brother Billy died early today, 2:00 a.m. They discovered sometime in the last two weeks, that he had a fast growing cancer. We've been in Billy & Nancy's home for dinner several times and have been with them at numerous events. He always made us feel like family. So tonight there is an emptiness. I'm hurting . . . I know my friend Peg is grieving deeply.

I'll just reiterate, the walk through the quiet peaceful damp neighborhood felt magical.

Good night from Southern California.
Rosie (& Mr. Fun), aka Carol

P.S. A year ago -- one of my favorite photos. Amazing the difference in a year.