I just woke up and a thump alerted Kano and me that the storm was actively doing her thing. The blinds and curtains were closed, which helps me dissipate some of the anxiety I experience during storms.

If I do not see the effects, I can ignore it, right?

I love storms! Yet there are many trees whose branches go from beautiful to ominous with each thrashing.

I could hear the wind as the sideways rain tapped loudly on my windows, seeking entry.

“Bear witness,” said a voice inside.

I don’t wanna! 😭

Alas, the compulsion persisted. Bear witness. The anxiety in the moment will pass. Look. Feel.

I opened the blinds and curtains. The windows were all white with condensation from the humidity. 🥵🙄

I refilled the water I keep around the house as Octopussy meowed to me, and I meowed back.

“You’re safe, little one.”

I say this to them often, even when I am not always certain of external factors.

Wind and trees and bumping and rain and creaking and happiness.

Go outside. Bear witness. Look. Feel.

Every day is a good day to experience. So outside I go, barefoot and curious, to enjoy the moment.

The moment was a teachable moment, as moments often are.

Keep facing fear, openly and curiously. For me, this is the way.

A wasp sought sanctuary on the tree behind me. Every creature deserves respite. I do not know where the turkeys go during the storms, but I do know they like to fatten up next door and then sunbathe in my yard. I hope with all hope that the forest behind my yard stays that way.

This area has changed so much. Retail is here. The Target opens on the 18th. Starbucks is open and the line was long today. I leave the coffee to the adults, I never plan to be one of those. I am positive the turkeys and many other animals were displaced with the arrival of big business to this tiny area.

For a moment, during the storm, I got to just feel. Bearing witness to what Nature does during the waning season of abundance. The potted plants in my garden were happy. I uprighted one of them that was partially leaning. I paid attention to see who was thriving, and who needed attention.

The invasive creeping air potato vines sought to overtake one of the lower Pagodas. I’ll tend to her this week. As I walked, listened, observed, and just felt, I realized things were not as sour my indoor mind wanted to make them (besides hot and humid 🥵🙄). At least here, in this space. Here’s hoping all are groovy and their storm snacks are abundant and that no one anywhere experiences any losses.

Today was facial day! My weekend plans were thwarted twice, but I always have something to do. Today’s collagen masque made my skin look and feel radiant, and I am groovy with that. 😍

All is well and groovy until it’s not. When things are not groovy, I know what to do to make it so again. And again. Ever more. 🌙💖✨