Too many patients. Not enough patience.

A rainy view from my upstairs study.

Husband is worse.

Dog is worse.

A builder's estimate we just got is so far out of line for our new house that I fear, between that and the U.S. economy, our plans may not go forward.

My mom's saying is "Things always work out for the best."

My younger sister's advice is "Thank God for all things."

While I can intellectually say I have a lot to be thankful for (and I do - many, many people and reasons for being thankful), my emotions right now aren't a match for that.

I hope I get my cheer back soon. This weekend my older sister and her husband will drive many hours to be at my parents' summer cottage, and we will be there, too. And so will my younger sister.

Already I'm feeling better.