On taking inventory before moving forward … and a few gift suggestions

As I write, the world outside of my window is still. Suspended. Kansas City’s wind is on furlough this afternoon and the trees that line the back of our yard appear to be painted. Skeletal limbs that were verdant with autumn two weeks ago are frozen in this moment. The cardinal perched within the tangle of the woods, a still life. Hushed.

My insides are …