Those of you who are Latin language or history scholars, or who just like to amass bits of trivia knowledge, may recognize in the title my first (and probably only) attempt at a joke/pun in Latin.

Apparently when Julius Caesar wrote to the Roman Senate around 46 BC, after achieving victory in his short war against Pharnaces II of Pontus at the Battle of Zela (in what is now Turkey) he proclaimed his success in the short phrase 'veni, vidi, vici' now famously translated as 'I came, I saw, I conquered'.

Sue and I safely settled in our retreat cottage in Yarragon yesterday after a long, tiring but absolutely uneventful trip involving car, legs, airplane, legs, bottoms (waiting), legs, shuttle bus.

We are now pleased to loudly and proudly proclaim 'veni, vidi, dormi' - 'we came, we saw, we rested'!

The effort took its toll on Sue who now has to rely heavily on painkillers and heat-packs to get through the day. She continues to astound me with her capacity and willingness to daily see the joys and blessings (of which there are many indeed) undistorted through the lens of pain.

As many of you will know personally, there is a particular sort of helplessness and emotional toll that is experienced by those love and care for those in constant pain and distress. I am certainly experiencing that at times as I mentally seek the non-existent magic wand that will bring Sue immediate and prolonged physical comfort and release. I am fortunate indeed that Sue usually appreciates my effort, and always appreciates my intent, as I seek to provide support and ease where I can. Our prayer is that we can continue this journey of mutual love, care and grace as the days unfold.

Through it all, Sue continues to look pretty well (and pretty as well!) and we enjoy looking for and finding the joys and blessings that mark each and every day. Perhaps a further tweak on Julius Caesar's model phrase: