Amaryllis

As I write today's installment, I gaze at the astounding red amaryllis flower on my desk. The amaryllis is an inspiration from 86-year-old Lois who lives in an apartment surrounded by her passions of beauty, art, opera and unique flowering plants. During our weekly visits, we take walking tours of the foliage in her apartment and gaze out her riverside window at swooping red-tailed hawks—and even once that famous whale who swam up the Hudson.

Lois understands what brings her joy and supports her self-care. I've learned from her to bring my own red beauty into my apartment, which brings me peace. Take care of yourselves this long winter and remember—like Lois—that all will bloom again.