A sentiment on my Nextdoor news feed I thought was worth passing along for everyone whose life has slowed down: People often assume that preferring to stay home means something is wrong. Some think it must be loneliness, sadness, or fear holding someone back from going out. But for many of us, that couldn’t be further from the truth. There comes a time in life when your home becomes your safe space. The world outside feels loud, rushed, and full of energy that doesn't always feel good to carry. Stepping outside begins to feel more draining than refreshing. That doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with the world—it just means you’ve learned to protect your own. Home offers a kind of peace that few places can match. Your favorite blanket, your playlist in the background, your favorite meal in the kitchen—those things bring a sense of calm that no social event can replace. It’s not about being shy or hiding from life. It’s about knowing where your energy feels the most settled. Even on the days we do go out, there’s a quiet countdown happening inside. The moment the shoes come off, the makeup is gone, and the oversized tee goes on—that’s the real comfort. That’s the reward. Alone time doesn’t feel empty. It feels full. Full of awareness. Full of clarity. Full of real rest. Some people won’t understand it, and that’s okay. This love for solitude doesn’t grow from bitterness. It grows from experience. After enough noise, you learn to cherish the quiet. After enough chaos, you crave simplicity. It’s no longer about proving anything or being seen everywhere. It’s about choosing peace again and again. This season of homebody energy isn’t about anyone else. It’s not for a partner. It’s not for attention. It’s for you. It’s about feeling good in your space, taking care of your needs, and choosing the kind of life that allows your nervous system to relax. Happiness doesn’t always shout. Sometimes, it sits quietly on the couch with a cup of tea and says, “This is enough.” And in those moments, it truly is.

April 25 is ANZAC Day in Australia and New Zealand, the equivalent of the US Veterans’ Day. It was chosen because on April 25, 1915. the Australia and New Zealand Army Corps stormed the beaches at Gallipoli in what was ultimately a failed camapign to take the Gallipoli Peninsula from the Turks led by Kemal Attaturk. It was the first campaign in which there were major losses for the ANZACs. There is usually a special service held by Australian and New Zealand participants at Gallipoli on ANZAC Day, which is facilitated by the Turks, and towns all over both countries have a Dawn Service and usually a parade and wreath laying ceremony later in the day for all returned service personnel, as well as other activities commemorating the day.

Or pee on your garden, katlan, for probably more/bigger veggies. o j

Sorry eld...that's why I added the note. It was just meant to be punny.