Shelter in Place, San Francisco, California, December 2, 2020
The Jade plant usually blooms the same day or week that the rain sets in for good - around the first of December. This year, precipitation has been paltry so far, allowing for a delicious spate of cool and golden sunshine, perfect for basking on the deck. Down below our perch, planted in half sun, half shade, the big, bulky Jade has bloomed without the rain — its daintiest of flowers dry, and nestled in the bulky, rubbery leaves. Whenever the rain shows up it will be welcome.
I have spent the last two days shopping for my far-flung family, reveling in the pictures I have of who they are, what they might want, and how best to make them smile and laugh. It makes me happy. Yes, I’m starting Christmas earlier than I ever have but, I ask, why not?! The pleasure in the giving is greater than ever, my time is completely open, and I’m guessing that shipping will be difficult and slow this pandemic year as many of us resort to online shopping and deliveries (I’m trying to support smaller vendors, which makes it even a little harder to make sure things arrive just in time).
I think we all should celebrate our respective holidays whenever, as much, and however we choose. Don’t you agree? After the year we’ve had, I think anything goes. Which is why I’m doubling my annual donations, rehearsing carols with a group online, sipping my first glass of eggnog already, and clearing space in the living room for a very early tree. I might wait a few more days to start baking, but whenever I do - just like the rain - the cookies will be welcome and out of the oven just in time.