The back porch seems to be a reflection of our lives, where we are a given time. Around here, the morning wash is rarely laundry (my wife is not into washing socks of any kind, she doesn’t believe in it), it is more apt to be recycled fabric or, this morning, vintage hankies. I always look at the porch first to see how the farm is. Barn cats are usually in the chairs, chickens are parading by the back door, no leaves are appearing.

My driftwood cross keeps a spiritual eye on the place. I love seeing the vintage hankies, they are Maria’s flags, flapping in the wind. Then off to Saratoga Springs for the first time in awhile. From noon to one p.m., I’ll be taking part in a celebration of Northshire Book’s new Saratoga Springs store, I hear it is a wonderful store and booming also. Nice news. I’ll be taking Red and Maria is coming and I’ll be signing books and greeting visitors to the store. Lots of writers are coming by today, sounds like a fun afternoon.