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In the kitchen, I load the dishwasher, wipe down the counters, and put away the breakfast ingredients.
The oven dings and Suzanne enters the kitchen, putting the cookie dough in to bake. I throw on my jacket before heading out into the cold. Since arriving in Winterberry, I’ve taken a daily walk, and it’s something I really enjoy.
In the city, you can get to so many places by walking, but I never did. I always had my driver take me, even if it was only a few blocks away.
But here, I wake up in the morning and look forward to walking. Even when it rained the other day, I took an umbrella, put my hood up, and explored the streets.
Today, the sun is shining but it’s cold. I zip my coat up before stepping off the porch. Without my phone to distract me, and no pressure to update social media, I’m truly present in the moment.
I’ve found myself noticing it all. From the smallest details—like the way the air smells or the way the trees look in the cold—to the larger things like the gorgeous Christmas decorations that cover the town, I don’t think I’ll ever forget.
There are so many people out today, probably because of the gorgeous sun, and most say hi as they pass. I’m starting to recognize faces, and a few people even stop to ask if my car is fixed or if I’ll be at the Tree Lighting tonight.
In the city, people stopped me when I went places, but it was always to take my picture or get an autograph. They didn’t care aboutme.Not really. They were just excited to get a photo for their Instagram feed.
After a few blocks, I arrive at the lake and stroll down the pier. Benches surround the water, with people sitting and taking in the view. It’s so peaceful. I find an empty bench and take a seat.
Small waves lap at the shore, and there’s a smell I can’t describe in the air. It’s a combination of the trees, the water, and the promise of snow.
It smells like hope.
And it feels like home.
Shivering against the cold, I stay on the bench for as long as I can, sharing small moments with passersby.
An hour later, my stomach rumbles and I realize it’s nearing lunchtime. I make my way over to Sally’s Diner.
When I enter the diner, I see Sally behind the counter in her usual spot, and wave.
“Penelope! Hi! Just one second and I’ll get your favorite table ready for you.”
“Thanks Sally!”
With her signature smile and eclectic taste in fashion, she interacts with each patron like they’re her best friend. She knows everyone’s names, their favorite dishes, and who their family members are.
I love seeing her in her element, being the amazing owner—and friend—that she is.
While I wait, I take in the framed photos on the walls, and I’m drawn to a picture of Brent and Nora. They’re smiling, with their arms around each other, and Nora can’t be older than a year or two.
A small smile appears on my face and my cheeks heat. Will I ever be able to look at even a picture of Brent again and not think about that kiss?
“Here you go, your table awaits my lady,” Sally says, interrupting my thoughts.
“Yay thank you.” I follow her to the table I always sit at when I come in. It’s right next to the window, with a lovely view of Main Street. Sally sat me there once, and now it’s my favorite spot. Sally tries to keep it open for me when she can.
I love her.
“How are you? Are you coming to the lighting tonight? Have you heard from Ben about your car?” She fires questions at me at warp speed, without pausing to take a breath.
“I’m good. I wouldn’t miss the lighting. No word from Ben, I’m going over there after this to see if there’s any news.”
“Let me guess, you’d like a BLT with curly fries?” She’s getting to know me too well.
“You’re good, my friend, you’re good.”
“I try. Have you seen Brent lately? I feel like he hasn’t been here in days.”
“Ummm actually we watched a movie last night at his house.Elf. And we had some hot chocolate. He kind of found me outside in the snow, pacing, and cheered me up.”
