Art of the Pie®

Making the World a Better Place One Pie at a Time

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • Welcome
    • About
    • Kate McDermott Press Mentions
  • Books
    • Bibliography
    • Erratum
  • Learn
  • Recipes
  • Videos
  • Contact
    • Media Inquiries
You are here: Home / Love / At the Edge

At the Edge

12/22/2013 By Kate McDermott-Art of the Pie 10 Comments

At the Edge

I read this morning, “Life begins at the edge of your comfort zone” in Jean Houston’s The Wizard of Us.

Harmony Woods

Harmony Woods

I have been brought to the edge. Willingly? I’m not sure. But, I know it is time. My body out and out said so. How much clearer could it be when one cannot breathe and needs a 911 visit and day at ER.

“You are breathless, little one. It is time to take a breather.”

I’ve been here before…Exhaustion + Anxiety + Sleeplessness bringing on episodes of breath-less-ness.

My doctor prescribed pills. I tried them for several nights. They relaxed me but did not bring much needed sleep. I put them aside and resorted to my tried and true valerian tincture and slept like a baby.

A two-month medical leave of absence was also prescribed. The timing was perfect for the company for whom I have worked for over a decade as we mutually decided “retirement” for me…a new generation coming in to claim the department that I created. Yes, I had mixed emotions as I am in no way prepared financially for this. Wouldn’t you? But, I trust that this is in my highest good.

The first weeks were spent sleeping and reading at Pie Cottage…no energy even to walk. Cooking a big pot of soup on the woodstove that would last for days…and resting. That was enough.

Now, I am nearing the end of a two-week visit to dear friends in the Midwest who have received me, nourished me, loved me and given me the space just to be…asking nothing in return other than I be authentic in asking for what I need in this moment…and then making it happen. Bless them. Bless them for soothing teas, warm fires, cinnamon toast, and peace. I cherish this time.

Today is the first day of Winter and as I look out on the snowy landscape in front of me I can feel the sap beginning to stir deep within.

Yes, I am here…at the edge of my comfort zone.

Harmony Woods Sunset

Harmony Woods Sunset

Filed Under: Love Tagged With: Jean Houston, Pie Cottage, tea, The Wizard of Us, toast, valerian

10 Thoughts on At the Edge
    ilva
    22 Dec 2013
     3:26pm

    much love to you, you are precious

    Reply
      Art of the Pie
      22 Dec 2013
       4:22pm

      Thank you, dear. I’m really fine. I view this as a blessing in disguise! xo

      Reply
    Jane
    22 Dec 2013
     4:54pm

    I am so glad you are recuperating and finding your center again. We await you with open arms!!

    Reply
      Art of the Pie
      22 Dec 2013
       6:40pm

      I can feel the love! xo

      Reply
    Robin O
    22 Dec 2013
     7:33pm

    On the cusp of something. Let the cold of winter let you hibernate, rest and gain strength for the string that will emerge. Take good care, that is a tough lesson for such a go-getter that is you Ms. Kate!

    Reply
      Art of the Pie
      22 Dec 2013
       8:23pm

      Indeed and the best is yet to come! xo

      Reply
    Jamie
    23 Dec 2013
     1:47am

    Peace to you, dear Kate. Listen to your body, listen to your heart and know when to slow down, look in a different, a new direction and even just take a break. Enjoy the holidays with loved ones and let others do the cooking and baking! Ilva is right, you are precious. We want to wrap you in warmth and love and rays of sunshine. Happy, joyous and peaceful holidays, dear friend xo

    Reply
      Art of the Pie
      23 Dec 2013
       5:39am

      Thank you Jamie! Signs are becoming clear that this rest is preparing me for the next big chapter! xo

      Reply
    Leslie Irish Evans
    23 Dec 2013
     6:40am

    What wisdom you have to listen to your body, Kate! I wish you peace and prosperity in the coming year. Much love to you.

    Reply
    Laura
    23 Dec 2013
     9:06am

    Oh, Kate–You are made for challenges (apparently) and always find the adventure in trial! Take care of yourself and continue to bless the goodness around you.

    Reply

Leave A Comment Cancel Reply

Recipe Rating




  • Sign up to receive my weekly newsletter!

Yes that’s me at three! Everyone needs a clown suit.

Bake with Kate

In Person Art of the Pie Day Camps

  • In Person Art of the Pie Day Camps at Pie Cottage for June through September 2022 are Sold Out.

 

Virtual Workshops Broadcast Live from Pie Cottage

  • Key Lime Pie on July 10.
  • Baking Summer Berries with Kate McDermott, a 3-part series in July presented by 92Y in NYC.

Click on the Cover

Art of the Pie (the Book)
Pie Camp Book Cover

Pie Camp: The Skills You Need to Make Any Pie You Want

Home Cooking with Kate McDermott

 

© 2022 · Art of the Pie® · All Rights Reserved