(This is the gas station where I fell in love with David. I know, romantic right? We stopped here on our way home from Canada this year, and I took this picture. We spent the next 100 miles of the trip reminiscing.)

Last night after David read my post and we were lying in bed in the dark he put his hand on my back and said, "I think you've got great taste."

I asked, "In men?"

And we laughed.

And then he continued doggedly forward and hunted around a little for the right words about my writing. I could tell it was like finding his way in the dark. But I appreciated the effort.

This morning as he left for the hospital, I asked him to kiss me with courage and determination.

He smiled at me and then complied.

He knows I need the courage to face my chores today and did his best to pour a little into me. I appreciated the effort.

And then a little later this morning, as I followed him out to the car and held his hand in a silent plea to stay and help (or at least stay and talk to me while I work) we passed the calendar.

He tried to be bolstering, "Hey, it's the first day of autumn."

I rolled my eyes.

"No, come on, that's encouraging. Even if it doesn't feel like it. We could celebrate. Let's bob for apples tonight."

He was teasing me, of course. But it was enough.

I felt propped up. And a little more courageous and determined, I made a menu for our celebration. It will include

the solstice candles

pumpkin soup (with curry and apples)

homemade bread

fresh raspberry jam

and, for dessert, I will take a break from peach pie and make one out of apples instead (my specialty)

When your courage is failing you on a very ordinary Tuesday in mid-September, it is very nice to have such good taste in men.