This happy state of affairs has been achieved (for now) by each of us refraining from telling the other what to do!

Gratitude List 17/2/24 (Retrospective)

1. At the moment my work is so busy that I am carrying gratitudes in my head. For the sacred miracle of work and for my head within which to remember gratitude: Thank You, Thank You, Thank You.

2. On the 16th of February I went into Fortnum and Mason's and secured (at a very good price(and within date!) A pie which had been designed for Valentines Day. For humour, bargains and for fun. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You.

3. On the 17th of February I visited Barbara (my mum) in Woodbridge and took the pie to her. As You can see it made her happy. She liked the joke, and loved the "I love You" written on it. For love: Thank You, Thank You, Thank You.

4. At long last, it seems, for now, that Barbara and I have learned to hang out with one another and have fun. This happy state of affairs has been achieved (for now) by each of us refraining from telling the other what to do! For harmony: Thank You, Thank You, Thank You.

5. We have a routine that involves driving from Woodbridge to Southwold. For the sea, for coffee, for air and far flung birds. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You.

6. In return for the pie, Barbara bought me a coffee peculator, in Adnams. By happy coincidence this (like the pie) was half price. For hunting and for bargains: Thank You, Thank You, Thank You.

7. In a few weeks Barbara is going to be 85. I am grateful for every visit and always tearful when I leave. Despite our ups and downs I am completely aware that I stand on her shoulders and have immense gratitude for all that she has given me. She is my greatest teacher and has a heart of gold. For Barbara: Thank You, Thank You, Thank You.

8. On this particular trip I had a special project - to find some swans feathers. At dusk we drove to Thorpeness. Barbara is very psychic. I went where she directed. By the mere the flock of swans were beginning to roost and stood majestically silent in the dying light. Half in the world and half out. I found four feathers and asked permission for them. I felt that it was granted. For magic, for the sacred, for the grace of swans. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You.

9. We drove back to Woodbridge via Aldeburgh, buying fish and chips on the way. For nourishment and for outings that include fish and chips: Thank You, Thank You, Thank You.

10. For poignancy, for connection, for courage and for love. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You.