\POST 9/2026 GOSHEN, INDIANA . . . Days ago we were in Cornwall, UK; we’re now home again in Indiana, USA. The almost 4000 miles of separation are bridged by fondest feelings for people and place.

Let a few photos give a glimpse of the now and then.

Homebound over Newfoundland and Labrador

I still have not come to terms with hurtling through the sky at speeds of 600 miles per hour and temperature of -60, let alone the stats from the recent voyage around the moon. The pictures of that space venture give me a refreshed sense of earth-bound beauty, connectedness, and urgency to care for it all, as for myself.

First plantings

I’ve planted Begonias in our front yard. Mulch to come. I am so grateful that I can get on my knees to weed and plant and still get up. A sense of joy came over me as I was playing in the dirt. The day got hot and a heavy rain came pouring down.

To celebrate these first of the plantings I sat down to work on the New York Times Spelling Bee puzzle. Aced it. The puzzle can be tough, as it should be, and I only get to the Amazing stage, but most of the time I persist until I get to the top.

King George V Memorial Garden, Hayle, Cornwall

Victoria and Albert Museum, London

We visited only a few of the galleries, sculpture and paintings. Impressive place staffed by the nicest volunteers. As we entered a person leaving greeted us with, “You will love it!” We did. We also encountered a surprise when a woman invited us to sit at her table for our coffee and cake. She and her husband were leaving soon. We found out that they were married at my alma mater, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, Ontario, and had their reception at nearby Conrad Grebel University College. It so happens that I’m acquainted with one of their close friends. There’s more than the seven miles of exhibits at the Victoria and Albert that’s jaw-dropping.

Look up

I end with a quote from Charlotte Bronte (1816-1855), appropriate to both the Christian celebration of Ascension Day (last Sunday) and Pentecost (May 24). Bronte said, “I avoid looking forward or backward, and try to keep looking upward.”

I’m trying, too.

Best!

-John