I cannot explain the way I feel in Nice, other than to say that the sun spreads over my skin and wraps me in its warmth like an old and close friend. It dances on the streets, leading me to markets with plump olives, vibrant flowers, and the smells of Provence. It sparkles on the Mediterranean sea, showing me all of the excitement and glamour I’ve missed while I was away. It permeates every bite of perfectly ripe tomato and blistering hot socca. It makes every sip of rosé wine taste fresher. When it rests, I rest and await its glorious return.

A reminder that 2020 was also breakfasts at a home office desk and board games. It was cooking adventures and late night coffee. It was sweatpants fashion and impromptu house projects. It was puppy parenting and neighbor comraderie and more texting with family than ever before. It was anxiety and loss, but it was hope and perseverance too.

Falling in love with the HomePod Mini.

Because we are unabashedly an Apple Home, I knew I would like the Mini. I find setting named timers in the kitchen and verbally sending music to specific rooms surprisingly delightful. I bought two; I want more.

I’m in the kitchen, muddling lemon and cucumber slices in cocktail glasses. I measure out the shots of Pimms and pour them in.

The wine in our travel case would be shunned by our friends who consider themselves serious wine drinkers. But home alone on the occasional weeknight, we would open a bottle and pour it generously into the food we were preparing.