It’s the pause. The coffee pause. I cherish the pause. And I cherish the dash. Most of the best stories I have heard started around the table, likely with coffee and something sweet. With the right prompts and a sense of wonder, most stories can be told with meaning and a good sense of humor. Stories. We all have them. Take the pause with me.

Eat the berries that are in season. Wear an outfit that’s current and act your age. Be present. Be observant. Try to spend more time in the now than in the past. Learn from old people. Rest. Take a deep breath. Buy good shoes. Get a good haircut. Read good books. Write well. Pray. These from an evolving list of life rules.

I’d maybe like to be an interior decorator, a high end florist, a luxury travel editor or a kindergarten teacher. I dream of going back to Tuscany, the countryside of Sweden and wherever my kids are. I want to see the Northern Lights from a cold cabin with a glass roof and still spend more sun-filled winter days in the Caribbean. I like to ride my bike, hike with my husband and swim - though not usually in a pool. I’m my best self with my feet up with a good book or a good friend. There might be wine. There are sure to be candles.