Since the yard and the weather conspire against gardening, I am still doing a little indoor gardening — making new arrangements of old friends and preparing for more visits from younger guests. Paintings and pottery; furniture and books; and my boxes of things, plus four or five see-through bins of memories are camping out in spaces different from the ones they formerly occupied. They are like a welcoming committee telling me this is home now. Even the ones who live in the garage and basement — with the crickets.

New Arrangements of Old Friends Who Tell Me This is Home Now
Perhaps the most comforting communicators of the new normal are a booster seat and cabinet locks – testifying to a new guest list for now: little ones who need a boost up at the table, or, who might not be trustworthy around cleaning supplies will be more frequent visitors! I’ve had to rethink a few storage drawers, too. Box cutters and scissors should go to the back!

Preparing for Younger Guests
Herodotus said, Of all possessions a friend is the most precious. That must have been before he had grandchildren.
Setting up housekeeping to welcome kids — of all ages — is a good thing.
I love your correction to the quote from Herodotus. I concur. 🙂 and will have to keep that in mind myself when we move. BTW, all boxes you gave us have been used. Lvg town now for 10 days. When we get back, we’ll get in touch for more. Praying for Doug and you every day. So glad you have Holly near, even if she’s occupied.
Preparing for those grands is important indeed!