I have been on an extended break from my blog as I reconnect with what matters to me and what doesn’t. I love connecting with others around the world through this forum. I love learning about people, places, gardens, families, pets, books and ideas. However the United States is a hard place to live in for me right now. Too much of the internet, including social media, is full of hyperbole, terror, dissension and fear. Much of it is appropriate in small doses. But it takes its toll, no matter how little I let myself be exposed to it. Abortion, guns, sedition, lying, graft, grift and more fill the air right now. It reminds me of the 1960’s and 1970’s, years I already lived through. I was younger then with more stamina and more hope.
So acknowledging all that, I return to this place to express my thoughts. I am fully conscious of all the turmoil. However, I plan to continue to write about more ordinary things. There is much good to share. Think of my writing, as I do, as a balm for the weary.
From my religious tradition the words are “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” Whatever your world view, I wish you the same.
Saved By Words 
I applaud you in your plan to continue to write about more ordinary things, Elizabeth. There is much good to share, indeed.
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Thanks. Did I ever send you a photo of my friend Gwen’s painting? Fish and stuff?
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Yes, you did!
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Ordinary is much better than what the world is dealing with. Good for you.
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Too bad the “leaders” are so far away from us regular people.
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Agreed
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Yes, ‘ordinary’ is good. Keep doing ordinary.
Best wishes, Pete.
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Thanks so much.
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Writing helps and the everyday small moments in life are very important. I was wondering why you were not writing. Lovely photo 🙂
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Thanks. Needed to take a breather but back now.
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Hello Elizabeth, I am pleased to see a post from you. I also try to keep my little piece of the internet free from political misery. Our blogs are where we share the best of ourselves, our aspirations and our hopes.
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Very well put. I will remember that as I continue to write. Thanks.
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Good to see you, as always Elizabeth. Life is really all about ordinary, and if it wasn’t for those ordinary things we could not enjoy life!
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Very well put.
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Very nice photo, Elizabeth. I agree, we’re bombarded daily, hourly by social wars and news stress. Writing and reading about the simple life in a stress free attitude is good therapy for the soul.
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Thanks. Our marriage reminds me daily that there is much good in the world.
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I don’t think I could write about heavy topics every day. It’s good to mix up your blog and write about ordinary things.
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Thanks Pete.
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Oh there you are….with a fella who I take it is your man. Good looking couple!
There’s a lot going on in your part of the world isn’t there….good on ya for being ‘ordinary’ – we definitely like ordinary so are looking forward to hearing about your ordinary life. My life is certainly ordinary- some days I wonder if writing about it is interesting enough
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Yes, that is definitely my man. I love reading about your life and take comfort knowing that others like to read about my ordinary life.
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Good to see you back, Elizabeth, and a lovely photo. I completely understand what you express here; I feel the same way too about our side of the ocean. The world is a difficult place right now. Please continue to write about those ordinary things. To do so is an act of rebellious hope and rebellious joy, phrases which resonate strongly for me right now. take good care x
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I love the phrases rebellious hope and rebellious joy. Thanks for increasing my vocabulary and great to see you.
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Welcome back! The world is a dark place right now! I feel that if our words can bring some levity and light to someone’s day, we are doing a small but valuable service! Take care!
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I love that perspective and will hold onto it. Thanks.
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Hi Elizabeth, I have to believe that all the bad and turmoil is what makes the news, and not the good. That’s sad, because most of what happens with people is good. Peace be with you.
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Yes, for sure. It is difficult to remember that sometimes.
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It is! My days with children help keep all the good in check.
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Just imagine that every time you post something “ordinary” and good it dilutes the seas of badness that comprise the internet. Now if enough of us do it .. .. ..
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That is a very consoling as well a true comment.
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