What do we really need?

'What do I REALLY need to start over?'

That's the question that kept me awake all Friday night and into Saturday morning. This after a fire alarm at 1:40 a.m. in my high rise! I live on the 18th floor, so even the idea of a fire is horrifying. Oddly enough, I wasn't panicked. I got dressed, grabbed my purse and passport and headed down the stairs. I actually ended up visiting with several neighbours as we stood out in the cool night's air. It turned out to be a false alarm, and we were let back into our homes in about 20 minutes.

The problem is that sleep eluded me after the incident. I lay in bed thinking about what I 'would' have done if my home had been destroyed and I had only the clothes on my back.

I decided that in addition to grabbing my purse and passport, I should have picked up my phone. You see, with my phone, I.D. and credit card, I could head over to a hotel and at least get a room. Losing my home would be devastating and frightening, but rebuilding would be doable. I'm a very practical woman, so I know I'd figure it out.

There are many days when I wish the steps to rebuilding my 'emotional' life were just as obvious for me to see. Some days they are, and some days they completely elude me. That's okay.

On another note, I was gob-smacked yesterday when I received another message from Chapters. The Westside store here in Edmonton asked me for ANOTHER box of books. I am truly taken aback. I mean other than word of mouth, the book is not being advertised. I printed 2000 copies and I'll soon be sold out. I could never have imagined.

Meanwhile, I've got another batch of fruitcake in the oven and a slow cooker full of red cabbage on the counter. Again today, my home smells like Christmas.

I keep baking fruitcake because I keep giving it away! Right now, that is making me very happy.

Have a marvellous Monday. I love cool, crisp days----especially when I'm inside baking!