I’m confident the reader is tired of my oft-repeated expression: “I love my backyard garden!!”  Without the wildlife, life wouldn’t be worth living!!  The variety of birds, and the large number of squirrels, haven’t abandoned me.  I never cease to enjoy seeing a dozen, or more, birds outside my large patio doors/windows.  Moments ago I counted over twenty….  I took a few minutes to replenish feeders.  ~~  I’m not complaining.  I’m not unique.  How many other Seniors are facing the holidays alone??  The media puts an emphasis on “family”; advertisements bombard us with gift suggestions.  In my humble opinion, “K” is for kindness not a jewelry store.  Don’t misunderstand, I receive kindness here at the JAARS Center.  **BUT** I passionately long for contact with my children and grandchildren.  I get depressed at this time of year.  Repeat: I’m not complaining.  My blogs have been my diary, my journal, my documentation of events in my life.  I started this specific blog message to express pleasure with approximately two dozen birds on the lawn and feeders.  Sorry, I can’t capture the scene in a picture.~~ But, I share with you a Phlox that  is blossoming in my yard.  The picture doesn’t convey the beautiful deep purple color.