I deep cleaned the kitchen and wrapped presents today.
I’m tired.
Achy…. sat on the floor and lost the tape, scissors. I probably swore… definitely tired.
(Moms know)

But I’m also anxious by nature.
Struggled, if I’m honest,
especially this year with my anxious nature.

And the wind… wreaks me.
Makes me so unsettled.

And I know the deer that are nearly tame-
who come when I call-
as I throw stale crackers from my pantry — are suffering.
And the squirrels. And birds. And occasional fox.
Wonder after them. Wish them warmth. A place to settle. Shelter.

Also cats. Two in particular are like family. I’ve watched them trace the crescent moon of my driveway a thousand times. I put food out when it’s cold. Poe and King.

And I think of my grandmas: 80 something and 90 something. And my new nephew. And all of us.

But I also heard- the Rosebud Reservation (or parts of) still have no power or water after last week’s blizzard. So I weep for those grandmas. Those infants. And all of them.

And, gosh, this wind is not a soundtrack I’d wish on those I love.
Or those I hate.
Or anyone.

Windchills 50-70 below zero.
Be safe.
And if you can take care of someone.
Do that.
Just- do that.

(Pic: My Christmas tree illuminating the ice growing inside my window. And my heater has worked all day. Be kind.)