Just a brief reflection tonight. The video is lengthier than most, so the editing took me quite a while. But it was worth it to document for you, and for us, what Robert's newsletter has meant over the last 4 years. Once again, the quality of the video is a little unsteady -- I'm working on that! However, in this video, Robert and I were handing the iphone back and forth because we were both speaking, and needed to record the two voices, so the handoffs are particularly wacky! Such high quality production!
It was fun to talk to Robert about something that he does every day, that impacts both of us, and that I believe has made such a difference for so many. I know that it has been the balm that our family needed to get through these last 4 years. And despite being right by his side for all 4 years, I was still surprised at some of his answers!
The Los Angeles Arboretum is a lovely place. There were so many families with children there, and I can see why. It's 127 acres of open space with lots of secret alcoves, large green lawns, water features, and flowers! I can imagine how lovely it is during the spring. We will have to return. And the video that we took doesn't even show all of the grounds. Because we had not been before, we wandered randomly, sometimes in not so picturesque places. In fact, we never got to the rose garden at all, which was particularly lovely.
Next time we'll focus on the garden and not on the newsletter! For now, I plan to celebrate this glorious day by starting to sew my new granddaughter's Christmas stocking. Wish me luck!
Hi Jill and Robert,
I love hearing your voices during your garden walk and reflecting on these difficult past four years. The newsletter has helped me navigate through each tumultuous day and week, and I am so grateful and fortunate to be one of your many devoted readers!
It was wonderful meeting both of you at your holiday gathering last year and being embraced by your warmth and gracious hospitality. I know it's impossible to gather in person this year but I do look forward to your virtual open house!
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. We have much to be thankful for.
Take good care. Elaine
Many thanks to both of you....garden advice and peace of mind all in one wonderful package!
Jill, I have a question. How do you keep snails away from your pansies. I have been heartbroken over the years that I can't seem to grow pansies, so this year, I grew violets. So far, so good! Do you have any advice for me about pansies?
PS. Haven't watched the video of the walk at the Arboretum or the road to Silver city, but I can't wait to watch them! I am so touched by both Robert's and your loving affection towards one another! You are an example to all of us!
Jill and Robert,
I have a love-hate relationship with social media, but today, after watching this lovely chat, I am deeply grateful for it. By its magic, you both have become very real and dear friends. I am a late comer to the newsletter, but it was invaluable in getting me through the last month of political agony. It enlarged my capacity, like any good talk with a trusted friend can do, for sanity and comfort. And Jill, your gentle voice and love of life, keeps me reaching for the goodness outside (and outside politics) that means balance and gratitude—two of life's most potent balms. Thank you both, so much, and don't forget that you are treasured.
Kate B.
Jill and Robert,
I am a first time caller and grateful reader of the newsletter. I cannot tell you how thankful I am for the gift of your insight and perspective. I was also drawn to write a quick word simply because you mentioned a North Hollywood parish. I used to spend a fair amount of time in Taluca Lake at my aunts home. I attended mass at St. Charles every Sunday I was there. As fate would have it my principal when I first started teaching was the pastor there until 2018. I don’t know if St. Charles is the parish referenced but I hope it is. Fr. Gallagher was a special man and I know he would have…