Things I Have Decided

This is a list of Things I Have Decided Today.

It’s just my list for today. I could decide differently tomorrow, of course. But for today, this is it.

I have decided that:

• Puppy alarm clocks are better than the other kind. Even if they are set to go off at sunrise.
• Espresso in front of a roaring fire is a decadent way to laze into the morning.
• The decadence factor is increased geometrically by sourdough pancakes, eggs and bacon for breakfast.
• I adore my husband’s new haircut.
• Gorgeously clear autumn days that follow two weeks of rain are especially well-suited for driving up into the mountains.
• Viewing the distant surf crashing on the beach while motoring along the ridges behind Berry Summit (ca. 2800 to 3000 feet elevation) is just about the most breathtaking thing I’ve ever seen.
• If my husband hadn’t been a professional driver we likely would have ended up sliding off that treacherous icy forest service road and probably not stopped bouncing until we hit the surf.
• Panic attacks are not more fun at 3000 feet.
• Always bring gloves when you’re heading up into the mountains. Even if you think you won’t need them.
• Young dogs and snow go together like sourdough pancakes and maple syrup.
• Hauling fresh-cut firewood up a slippery-wet, muddy, overgrown bank can be fun if you’re doing it with someone you love.
• I need to get way more serious about bringing my body back into condition after this past summer’s illness.
• This has been the best day of my life. Even if Kira hadn’t taught me to think that about every day, I’d still know it was true.