Returning and Recovery
We returned from Cozumel very early last Saturday morning. (6/13/2026) Thursday morning I was rudely reminded why you don’t drink the water or have ice in a drink while in Mexico. (*see disclosure below) Today, I am sick and tired. 40 hours later, ten pounds lighter, I can’t stay awake for more than a few hours, then sleep for several, only to be interrupted by another reminder about the water.
It’s a beautiful morning, and I can barely drag myself out to sit on the deck with Michael, where he is reading a novel about the Battle of the Bulge. He is also attempting to shoo away some of the many large squirrels living on our property rent free using an unloaded BB gun. They have grown to the size of small cats while cleaning up under the three bird feeding systems set up south of the deck. Most remain undisturbed by the noise. The orioles, cardinals, blue jays, grosbeaks, goldfinches and other songbirds don’t even notice.
Yard and Garden Tending
The yard and gardens have fallen to Michael this season. In part because it’s new to him and a good form of exercise. The whole of the property looks like a well manicured park. Many of the plantings are new due to the major landscaping we did last fall. While already lovely this summer, next year they will come into their own. Everything, old and new, is responding to Michael’s daily attention.
We planted several trees during the landscape project. Some took well, others are struggling, and a few are gone altogether. We trimmed back the dead on the struggling trees and fed them growth supplements. The trees are teaching me patience. Some don’t like being moved any more than I do, but eventually, they accept their new surroundings. One of the Eastern Hemlocks I planted in 2023 turned around this spring and is now thriving.
Spreading Color onto the Patios and Deck
I care for the container gardens on the deck and patios. This year, because of the 250th anniversary of our country, most of them are red, white and blue. However, on the upper deck where we live outside, I chose flowers in shades of red, orange, yellow, pinks and white for contrast. The two tiny hummingbirds that joined us for the summer are enjoying them. Occasionally in the morning, one or two of the resident orioles will also stop by for some real nectar.
The two huge container tomato plants are just putting on fruit. I have no idea why they have reached a height of five feet, but we should have a good harvest. The cherry tomatoes are also showing promise of a good selection for salads and meals soon. The basil, rosemary, lavender, mint and lettuce appear to be in a race to see how large they can get. I am finding creative uses for all the herbs. Even if they aren’t used in a culinary way, a few in a vase on my counter leave the kitchen smelling of summer.
When Steadiness is Enough
As I look over our lush green lawn and thriving gardens, weak and worn out as I feel, I am reminded of Psalm 103:14, which says He remembers that we are dust. Some mornings that feels like the truest thing ever written about being human. There is the tired that comes from forty hours of a stomach bug that would not quit. There is another kind of tired that settles in slower, over time. It is heavy and does not lift with a good night of sleep or time. The first will pass, and my body will heal. The second may not, and I will have to live with it. Both are real and both are allowed.
I am encouraged as I read on to verses 15 through 18. God does not leave us in our weakness. His love is steadfast and everlasting, in spite of our frailties and because of them too. I am learning to trust in that steadiness. It is enough, even when healing does not come.
Waiting to Recover
My water features are running well this morning, and the sound is soothing. Other than the wind and the birds chirping, it’s peaceful out here today. Maybe I’ll feel better later. Because I’m tired of being sick and tired.
**My companions who traveled with me to Cozumel and I concur the illness some of us are recovering from was picked up somewhere other than the beautiful Presidente International Cozumel Resort & Spa. We will go back there when time and schedule allow.