I had to make a quick run to the grocery store and post office yesterday. As I came to the intersection and stopped at the red light, I saw a big truck coming from the other direction with an American flag flying near the side rear view mirrors. Inevitably, that kind of vehicle – and it’s almost always a truck – belongs to a Trumper. I’m used to seeing them. As I turned and drove to the parking lot, I noticed the truck was ahead of me and as the driver, who was a woman, parked, sure enough, I saw tons of bumper stickers extolling how great the Orange Man is.

Sigh.

I kept an eye on her as I walked toward the entrance – she was ahead of me. Would she wear a mask? Yes, thank goodness. You never know. It is a mandate here in NY and has been so for several months, but I’ve seen more than a few people not wearing masks.

Ran in, got what I needed, ran out, stopped at the Post Office, picked up a package and bought some stamps. That’s all I want to do in the outside world for the present. Today is dark and rainy. It’s been raining off and on all morning and we might have more thunderstorms. Two days ago, we had really stormy weather and it’s now been confirmed that a tornado touched down about ten miles south of us in the town where we go to pick up groceries. It’s also home to the antique shop where I found the vintage dollhouse. A little too close for comfort. Thankfully, no one was injured, but there was damage to buildings.

In the mail was a package from reader Nora. Nora has recently started to collect miniatures and is as enthralled with that world as I am. I’m going to share what was in the box, but forgive me ahead of time because I took the photos this morning and the light is terrible!

This is a leather chair made by Arlette Shelton, who also made the sofa I’m using in the English dollhouse. I knew that Nora had purchased it but was stunned to see it inside the box! Nora explained that she was going to go with 1:24 scale, rather than 1:12, and she wanted me to have it. It’s simply gorgeous. Arlette’s work is impeccably done.

Isn’t it beautiful? I have no idea where I’m going to use it, but rest assured, I will. I never cease to be amazed by Arlette’s work. This chair is solid and heavy and simply splendid.

Also in the box:

A mini canvas of The Lantern Bearers by Maxfield Parrish. Although Nora didn’t know it, this is my favorite Parrish. I still hope to find an original print someday (they’re very rare.) I’m thrilled!

Also in the box, 5 tiny little dogs standing on barrels, playing instruments. They’re very whimsical and sweet, but impossible to capture on this dark morning. More photos coming – in fact, I’ll take another round of photos of everything in the box – hopefully, tomorrow.

Thank you so, so much, Nora! I will treasure these beautiful miniatures.

We’re hanging out at home today. Don is deeply into Hamnet. I’m about to finish A Private Cathedral by James Lee Burke. New books will be started. It’s a quiet – so far – and rainy day and we’re very happy with that.

Congratulations to my best friend Laural and her husband who became grandparents for the first time yesterday. Their daughter Jennifer gave birth to a baby girl, Ellie. (Jen is my goddaughter.) Welcome to the world, Ellie!

Stay safe.

Happy Saturday.