Reviving

I bought hydrangeas on Friday, a treat for myself, and yesterday was so busy, I didn't get to enjoy them.

This morning, I walked the dog in the shivery gray of morning (c'mon, sun, we need you!) and then sat at the dining room table to do a little organizing work and write my Slice, expecting to be inspired by the flowers, surrounded by beauty as I get ready for the week.

But: these big blooms are suffering from hydrangea droop!

Up from the table, vase to the kitchen, and a quick Google to confirm the treatment. Biggest bowl we own filled with ice, with water; leaves snipped off the stems (water hogs!) and in those droopy blooms go.

"I'm sorry," I whisper, "but I think we'll both be happy we did this."

I'm thinking, now, of what revives ME, and wondering what reviving tricks YOU use?

These days, I might choose

* A mini 7.5 ounce Diet Coke, icy cold from the fridge (the cold might be a trend!)

* Stepping away from the laptop and looking at my bookshelves, seeing inspiration or sometimes spying a few titles that can be given away

* Perusing content or emails from Smitten Kitchen, an all-time favorite cooking escape that tempts me to try new ingredients or add a fresh twist to an old favorite

* A poppyseed tea biscuit from one of my favorite local coffee shops - the almost-crunchy texture and sweetness is not for everyone, but it perks me right up

* And the very best way to reset my brain, remind me what's important, make me smile: a text from my kids sharing an update or picture (especially a picture!)

Are any of you taking an ice plunge (!) or using other less chilly ways to bring the energy, so you can fully bloom?