Every month I chronicle those ordinary delights that give me comfort or offer a place of reflection or joy. I spent some time in my hometown this month. Here are my everyday delights for May – the Dallas edition.

1. La Madeleine: I’ve loved this French cafe for the last twenty years. As a graduate student I remember spending afternoon hours, studying and drinking coffee in a small corner in the back. When we lived in Houston, we had this cafe behind our apartment and I’d meet friends for an afternoon dessert. Whenever I am visiting Dallas, it is definitely on my to-do list.

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2. Capturing local beauty: I adore how paying attention has no limits. It rained quite a bit while we stayed in Dallas. I captured the dew on this yellow lily.

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3. Braum’s: The people who know me well understand my love for ice cream. I love Braum’s. My father took us on weekday and weekend evenings. I remember our order to a tee: peppermint ice cream for me, orange sherbet for my mom, butter pecan for my dad and chocolate for my sister. It is one of my favorite memories of my childhood.

4. Connecting with family and friends: My sister and my brother-in-law drove from Houston to meet us for a family event. We hung out for a 50th wedding anniversary, a surprise birthday and just relaxed at home. Familiarity and family breeds comfort.

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