Grateful

There are a few people out there whom I want to thank for their kindnesses. First of all, I want to thank Dave Rintoul for giving me the honor of showing some of his photography on my blog as the "Image of the Day". As if this was not enough, he also sent me a birthday gift of books .. two books by the amazing poet, Mary Oliver, House of Light and Dream Work, along with another book that I have wanted, Prospect, by his partner, Elizabeth Dodd. (Perhaps you remember this stunning photograph and accompanying poem, Impression, that they donated to my blog awhile ago? If not, you should check it out)

I also wish to thank my friend, Sally (not her real name), who sent me the Barnes & Noble gift card and the wonderful birthday card that reminds me that I have so much to be thankful for on this particular birthday because George Bush cannot be re-elected -- indeed, this is the very best birthday gift that a true American could wish for!

Last, but not least, someone out there -- and you know who you are even though I do not! -- sent me five pounds of chocolate covered coffee beans. I thank you from the bottom of my heart, especially since this means I am now making up for all my lost caffeine time. There's only one thing; I admit that I hadn't realized how much five pounds of these beans truly are, but the people at the post office sure were impressed. I am thinking of going into the coffee bean business now.