January 11, 2013

White Dog and the rest of The White Dog Army do not like the winds when they howl and scrape to get inside and gust hard enough to rattle the windows and street lights. We had been promised wind and dropping temperatures and snow for this Friday-Is-Our-Saturday; crystal blue skies told us that we were to be bypassed by the Snow Shepherds but the temperatures never managed to climb above freezing and the winds actually gave us a wind chill factor in the negative numbers.

No one rushed to the door in happy anticipation when Steve and I bundled up to meet friends for lunch. Dozing pups curled up in warm spots lifted their heads long enough to remind us to bring home a "doggie bag."

It was a day best suited for day dreaming, indulgently eating, and warm delicious smells. While the WDA enjoyed the remains of my steak and lettuce wedge salad including crumbled bleu cheese and bacon (no complaints) Steve went back to studying and I warmed the oven for some baking.

In no time, the house smelled like almond pound cake baking and quinoa risotto simmering. Hot mint tea brewed in mugs to be enjoyed with buttery cinnamon toast quarters. The White Ones could smell the salmon marinating. It was a fragrance of safety from the storm and filled us all with a sense of sanctuary as we listened to the gentle music of Enya.

Home. Sometimes just perfect without exciting adventures or fancy plans. Sometimes just being cozy and together is just enough.

Have a wonderful weekend.