• 

Thursday, July 23, 2020

Life is precious, and every moment should be cherished, even when life is far from the “normal.”

It’s not been a fun July, but we are adapting. And we are clinging to the hope–depicted on the smiling-poop-emoji birthday card presented to me by Youngest Son–that “this too shall pass.”

For now, we look for the simple–and safe–pleasures that can be found close to home.

Nine years ago today, my family was facing the most critical medical emergency that any of us had ever experienced. Our “normal” was almost permanently taken away from us within minutes. Thanks to a skilled medical team, a well-equipped hospital, and lots of prayers, our story had a happy ending, but we try every day to never take life for granted.

We got a second chance. My heart aches for all the pandemic victims and families who did not get a second chance.

Stay strong, my dear family and friends. May you stay safe and protected.

Today’s cocktail is gentle and soothing, and is helping me to use up the dried-rose-petal tea from the back shelf.

Add a tablespoon of rose-petal tea to 8 ounces boiling water. Steep until cool enough to strain. Chill, then add 1 ounce white rum, 1 ounce simple syrup, and 1/2 ounce lemon juice. Stir, add ice, and garnish with dried petal bits.