I’m blessed with an abundance of visible beauty in my life. Art was important to all my women ancestors I know of and possibly some of the men. I grew up surrounded by beautiful things, many of them created by family members. We took vacations to the mountains because both my parents appreciated natural beauty: my mom painted and drew and put a sketchpad in my hands. My dad took photos and put a camera in my hands. I sometimes think I’ve made choices to surround myself with so much beauty because it’s the only thing that makes human life bearable. Without it I’d have lost my mind ages ago. I’m grateful for beauty.

I’m grateful for beautiful food, and for thinking to add special touches even if I’m just serving myself. This creamy cauliflower dip is a great way to eat vegetables. So simple, so delicious. It’s like hummus but different.

And, of course, I’m grateful for beauty in my playtime as well. This self-care Sunday I ate right, exercised, walked outside, brought in firewood, connected with loved ones, and started a new puzzle.