Bird by Bird

The writer, Annie Lamott wrote a book called “Bird by Bird”. It’s about writing and life, and taking things step by step. The title is taken from advice her father gave her then-ten year old brother who was overwhelmed by writing a report on birds. Her father said just take it bird by bird.That’s advice I’ve always tried to follow when I am faced with a daunting task, like packing, moving and then unpacking a house.

I am faced with daily frustrations of not being able to find something critical – like my sonic screwdriver, which I used about three days ago, and is now nowhere to be found. I’ve called on saints to help me locate it, but I am sure it will re-appear as mysteriously as it disappeared.

I am starting to unpack my fabrics, and it’s like seeing old friends again! Oh, look, there’s Kelly Wearstler’s Bengal Bazaar! Barbara Barry, you’re looking gorgeous as ever. Shanghai, Nanjing and Summer Palace! Now all I need to do is find the citrine silk I am using to make curtains for the guest room, and I can hang them!

As I said, I am just emptying bags and boxes, bird by bird.