Election

At 6 a.m. today, the sky was inky blue and jeweled with constellations. Twist and I took a frosty walk; I had a flashlight but didn't really need it. There was no traffic, no noise; just a horned owl hooting in the distance.

Made it to the elementary school to vote by 8 a.m., with only one candidate (Democrat) in sight and a big make-do sign composed of smaller campaign signs for the Republicans. Ran in to our next-door neighbor on the way in, then greeted our across-the-street neighbor, who's a volunteer at the polls. The lady who took my ticket told me she didn't recognize me without my dogs (she lives on a neighboring street where we usually walk). She was sorry to hear Holli is no longer with us.

Touched the screen for my candidates, hoped it took, then slipped back out into the hall for the PTA bake sale, my favorite part of the general election. Bought two bags of scones (chocolate cherry and blueberry, and small!, not those mega-calorie bricks they sell you at Au Bon Pain), headed to the car and work.

Scratch that favorite part. Not true. I love that I can participate in a process and know that my neighbors and friends are doing the same thing. I hope that where I vote is reflective of the rest of the country. That is, we set aside our differences and participate in a peaceful process. And buy really delicious baked goods.

I thought about taking a picture inside, but the school has such a nice little learning garden for the kids. I snapped what looks like a milkweed pod instead.

I ignore all the coverage of running tallies. I don't care about exit polls. Count the votes and tell me who won. And keep the Supreme Court out of it.