The Prayer Flag Tree

Despite the fact that the roots are burned well into the ground creating a small crater, this tree still has a nice structure and a certain dignity. We have been wondering what to do about it, but I think I decided today that we will just leave it where it is. The leaves will eventually fall off but it will maintain it's graceful structure and serve as a reminder of how fortunate we were. I may still be able to hang some prayer flags of gratitude from its branches if the leaves ever fall off and the shop where I can get more prayer flags opens again.

I wrote a check today to the Timber Cove Volunteer Fire Department for they were the crew that arrived on our street to find the house fully engaged but the flames just catching on our fencing. I cannot imagine how they managed to do what they did, especially since the only water available to them was in a neighbors' swimming pool but they definitely performed a miracle.

We buried Ozzie's ashes underneath the newly planted apple tree by our porch. It is only a stick in the ground  right now and has a view of the ruins of our neighbor's house, but one day the tree will spread its branches, and block the view of whatever happens over there so in a strange way our choice represents hope and faith that one day it will be the peaceful refuge we want it to be.

I'm making our traditional New Year's Day meal of black bean soup and Dana and Jim and the boys are coming over to share the first day of the new year in the same way we shared the last day of the old...together.*
The extra was taken last night as we sat down to filet steaks, macaroni and cheese and roasted brussels sprouts all prepared by Jim. 

In spite of the horrible year we have all just endured, we do feel the most gratitude of all for our family...for those who live here and can be our bubble and have done so much for us, but also for those who support us from a distance.

Happy New Year everyone. Let's make 2021 a better year!