the rain that falls

The Ring of Brodgar, Orkney, Scotland

Sylvia Brown explained to me her theory on why many Scots aren't travelers: It's so lovely here in Scotland, isn't it? Really, in the summer it's so fine, and in the winter, even when it's cold and blowing, we can stay inside where it's cozy, and look out...So really, it's lovely all the year then, isn't it? (I'll not argue that point, Mrs Brown...)

It's been raining here all day, a cold steady wash, pouring from low gray skies. The kind of day to stay in bed if you can, with cups and cups of scalding tea, a good book, a stack of magazines (scissors, glue, and a journal at the ready). A puzzle book and a sharp pencil. A warm dog or two. No place to be besides right where you are. Fuzzy slippers and a soft warm robe at hand if you must get up - to prepare more tea, and toast.

If you can't - or won't - stay in bed, then a comfy chair,a good reading light, and a blanket are recommended. Add candles, and simple music, turned low.

If you will - or must - go out, then go all out. A warm sweater, a big umbrella, and galoshes make puddle-jumping fun.

And if you get caught out unawares - as I often do - remember the words of my mother: You won't melt!

photos: mine, cottagechicstore.com, doorstopphotos.deviantart.com,

etsy.com/shop/LycheeKiss, housetohome.co.uk, gothamcityinsider.com,

rosylittlethings.typepad.com, photoblog.nicolas-beaumont.fr,

The best kind of rain, of course, is a cozy rain. This is the kind the anonymous medieval poet makes me remember, the rain that falls on a day when you'd just as soon stay in bed a little longer, write letters or read a good book by the fire, take early tea with hot scones and jam and look out the streaked window with complacency. ~Susan Allen Toth

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