There’s something about heat and humidity that makes me slow down. That and kids home all day; errands to run in preparation for school; and life taking a turn – as it did a few times for me this summer.

I had plans to finish a novel. I completed copy-edits on an older one instead.

I had plans to work on our garden. I recovered from surgery instead.

I had plans to go on a grand tour with my family. We buried a beloved brother instead.

Our family moves into September at full speed – it is perhaps our busiest month of the year. But it’s August now. And I’m taking a little slow time. Time to think. Time to remember. Time maybe to heal.