When I feel world-weary, I actively try to turn away from the world’s troubles and focus on the many good things in my life. In addition to my family and friends, here are some things I enjoyed this past year—art, books, nature. Sorry, no raindrops on roses!

When I saw this painting I wanted to be there.
Patio in Sitges by Santiago Rusiñol
I don’t expect Facebook to offer inspiration, but this post by Saktikana Mitra Basu did.
“Aging doesn’t hurt your body first—it hurts your illusions.
I rebuilt my life on new rules — honest, sharp, practical rules for living with dignity.
Rule 2: Your health is your real jobRule 6: Protect your peace like it’s your property”

Starburst symmetry
Tucson Botanical Garden

Beautiful writing about an interesting time and place—Malaysia in the 1920s

Early spring display at the University of Minnesota Arboretum

The artist read my mind.
Concerned but Powerless by Safwat Saleem

Planting patio pots gives me so much joy.

Bucket list
I never thought I’d see Northern Lights in the city, but I did in November with a little help from my camera.