I have not yet met all of the birds here, nor been introduced to the squirrels. The trees are lovely acquaintances, but we haven't progressed much past small talk. I wonder how long it will take to stop feeling like a foreigner. There's the promise of many social engagements come spring: the hydrangea and that mysterious plant out front. But for now I am the new girl at school, waiting to be asked -finally asked- to sit at their lunch table, Waiting in the meantime for them to sit up and take notice of me. At least I have the light, steady companion from birth, the kind of kindred beloved at first meeting, like Lauren from the library eternally validating, each morning it pours reassuring warmth into my soul and gosh, it is so good.
1/31/22