It's a dog's life

Today, I am dog tired. The last two weeks have been very difficult and bothersome and tiring.
The next few days will be no less difficult, bothersome, or tiring.

There are those days when we would just love to be the Lhasa Apso of life; curled up in someone's lap garnering every ounce of their day's attention.

There are those days when we must don the guardian antics of a good German Shepherd to protect the ones we love.

More serious are those Rottweiler days when the protecting becomes a serious gnarling session of teeth and nails.

Maybe those tender Beagle-ish days when just a properly placed paw and tilted head can create a better day for someone else.

Or how about those Labrador days, shared with mutually loyal companions?

My favorite are the puppy days, when you can just play and eat and sleep without a care in the world.

Today, and for the next few days, though . . . I must be the Pit Bull! I need to find the tenacity and intensity and strength to endure whatever comes my way. I will be fierce, yes endearingly friendly. I will hunt down what I need and what I want and then love it to pieces.

But . . . no matter what kind of dog day you're having . . . every day is a good day to get your belly rubbed!

Go wag your tail!

Spotlight

I have a very dear friend, from a long, long, long time ago, who has inquired if he might nominate me for something. I have no idea where it might lead and I am most assuredly humbled by his gesture, but these sorts of things always frustrate me.

I am honored that he would think enough of me to do this.
I am quite certain though that there are a zillion other folks out there who are far more deserving than I could ever be.
My accomplishments, you see, are not accomplishments. They are an eager attempt to give back to those who have blessed me with their kindnesses, their talents, and their time so selflessly. I am not looking for back-patting. I am not looking for kudos. I am looking . . . searching . . . striving to simply be a better person.

As I told him recently . . .

I truly dislike being in the spotlight.
I would much rather shine it on those who deserve it.

Take Heart

When we find ourselves in times of trouble, we often think we are most vulnerable. We think we are so very isolated and alone. Lost and wandering. We are frightened and afraid of finding our way out of the dark, walking a new path, beginning a new adventure.

The verse says that we are never alone.

Take heart. It is in those darkest hours, that a brilliance beams through.

Take heart. It is in those saddest days, that we are showered with great affection.

Take heart. It is when we feel so very alone, that we are surrounded by those that care about us most.

Take heart. It is when we are most afraid that we take the boldest steps.

We are given everything we need to survive whatever occurs. In the midst of chaos, we sometimes lose sight of what buoys us, but it is there . . . and it is beautiful.

Take heart. You are never alone!

Throw Yourself!

Holding on to something that you believe is good for you presently, may be the exact reason why you don't have something better. The only way that we can live, is if we grow. The only way that we can grow, is if we change. The only way that we can change, is if we learn. The only way that we can learn, is if we are exposed. The only way that we become exposed is if we throw ourselves out into the open.

Do it.

Throw yourself!

Salute

To all those who have served or are serving . . . God bless and thank you!

All gave some and some gave all. Every one of you chose to stand for the values and principles of this incredible country. For that single choice, you are to be commended. For the rights and liberties of many, you put yourself in harm's way. You opted to give of yourself for a much broader purpose and on a much grander scheme than most folks understand.

Father, step-father, step-father #2, father-in-law, three of six brothers, nephews, nieces, dear and special friends, and so many others. I am sincerely thankful for your dedication to the ideals of the United States of America. I am proud of your sacrifice, admire your tenacity, and stand in awe of your service.

For those of you who take issue with these great folks, one of my favorite quotes needs to be screamed from every corner of the country today . . . "If you choose not to stand behind and support our troups . . . Please feel free to stand in front of them!"

To those that lead a hero's life . . . I salute you!

Hunt for Open Water

A strong and sturdy vessel
Adrift in seas unknown
We stand, united, on the shore
Praying for a safe journey home

You sail, now, amid calm waters
You are steered by higher winds
Guided toward a heavenly dock
Cleansed of any sins

Fishing will be plentiful
Clear skies, a constant plus,
You are free, with rod in hand
As tears come for all of us

Enjoy your blessed Captain
First mate, there's much to learn
We'll miss you now and always
Remember . . . red, right, return

Sparkles

The definition of sparkle is:  to shine or glisten with little gleams of light, as a brilliant gem; to effervesce; to be brilliant, lively, or vivacious.

There are, if you stop to think, certain people in your life that simply sparkle.

Those people who just make your day better by simple making an appearance. Those whose hugs are those massive, barely breathing, totally encompassing bear hugs. Those whose simple interest in your idle chatter makes you realize you matter. Those folks who lift you up when the rest of the world seems to want to drag you down. Those whose smile just lights up a room and bring a special sort of sunshine with them wherever they go. Those friends that just always know when you need a call, a pop-in, or a simple 'hello'. And, to top all those off, there are ones that actually, literally sparkle!

I am lucky enough to have several of these 'sparkly' types in my life.
I am blessed by their existence and moreso, by the fact that they choose to call me 'friend'.

Have a super sparkly sort of day!

Worry

Worrying doesn't take away tomorrow's troubles.
It takes away today's peace.

This has been going around a lot lately. Not sure if it is just the state of the world, in general, or just a message I'm supposed to see and take note of.

There is a lovely, wonderful woman that I work with who thinks that I bottle up all the hurtful things that people say and do. She worries about me because she is very emotional and lets everything show. She feels it is better to cry or be angry than to harbor and hold in the hurt.

I've tried to explain to her that I am probably one of the most emotional people she will ever come across. I cry at Hallmark and Publix commercials, National Geographic specials, and occasionally in the card aisle in the store. When I am angry, my kickbag surely knows it and I'm certain that IT cries much more often than I do.

However, what I've tried to impress even more upon her is that the worry of what and how and when to feel things; how to fix things; and whom to be concerned with is something NONE of us have ANY control over. I cannot fix an angry customer. I can do what I'm able to do to please them, but if they still choose to be cranky, I will simply wish them a good day and, as my mother used to say . . . NEXT! I am only in control of what I say. I am not really in control of what you THINK I said or might have meant. That would be your business. There are those that take everything WAY too personally and believe it's all about them. I have no time for that.

I cannot worry about things I cannot control. I cannot fix all the broken in the world. I can mend my little corner. I can assist those in my neighborhood and those that choose to accept my assistance.

When I lay my weary bones down on my bed at night, I am content in knowing that I am spent. I have tried. I have given the day my all. I have shared what I could, loved who I'm able, and prayed for those I cannot physically help.

Do what you are able. Worry not about the things outside of your control. Do not fret today about yesterday or wish away today for tomorrow.

Today . . . find peace.

Amazing You!

There are those folks who are constantly dieting, trying every new workout, spending a fortune on the latest fashions, and the worst . . . those that surgically alter themselves. They are seeking that ever-elusive brass ring of popular acceptance and cultural beauty.

Eat smart and properly.

Excersize enough to see your great grandchildren.

Wear what is comfortable.

Figure out that you are absolutely perfect EXACTLY how God made you.

There is no magic potion, super pill, funky gadget, or silicone/surgical fix to what ails you.

Stop searching the world over for some mystical treasure that might transform you into what you perceive is something better. The real treasure lies within yourself.

The real treasure IS you!

You are what and who and how you are for a reason. When you change those things, you've robbed the world of your uniqueness; your special qualities; your individuality.

Be Amazing You!

Hurting Hearts

It has been a rough few days.

I've had two close friends lose pets. Dogs and cats may seem fairly uninteresting to some, but when  you have one . . . it is an entirely different story. The unconditional love given by a pet is indefinable. It is that comfort one receives after the worst day of dealing with humans. It is that indescribable joy of a wagging tail or a nuzzle for love. To lose that is a hurt beyond description.

I have another friend who lost an 89 year old uncle. He said he lived a good, long, full life and that is a beautiful thing. It is a wonder to have witnessed the changing of the world over such a long period and to be surrounded by family and folks that care about you. It is a well-lived journey through which many lives were touched. I'm sure he will be missed.

And yet, another dear, sweet, incredible friend must find a way to bury her son this week. How one finds the strength to bid their child farewell is beyond me. This just simply should never occur, and yet it does. We find solace in the fact that he touched many lives. He was a beautiful, happy, soul who enveloped himself with family and friends and things he loved to do. He will walk in a more beautiful garden and fish a much greater ocean now.  My heart is with his family.

And Oklahoma's storms have claimed so many lives. In a moment's notice, what you took for granted is gone . . . your possessions, your home, your life. How does one put into words the devastation that has taken place? How does one begin to literally pick up the pieces?

My heart hurts. There is an ache so large and inconsolable that I cannot imagine fixing it. Yet, I know, from personal history, that we must continue on. There are tremendously gaping holes left in our lives and in our hearts . . . but we must fill them, bandage them, find love to spackle them up, and continue our journey.

I begin each day and end each day the same . . . in prayer and in thanks for another opportunity. For those that I have lost, I appreciate and give thanks for the time I was blessed to have with them. For those I cannot console currently, I will give them my shoulders, my time, and my prayers.

Chin Up. Knees Down.

I love you all.

Beautiful Calm

Twenty-two years ago today, my most incredible daughter graced our lives.

With a head full of Don King-like hair, she was just special from the moment she arrived. She rolled over at thirty-six days. My friend said, "That was just a fluke."  So, I put her back on her back and . . . like a perfect little pancake . . . she flipped herself back over. She never hit the cruising stage. She went straight from crawling to running . . . and that was right around nine months.

She was adding by age three and speaking, way too much, for her brother all the time. She has always had the most incredible imagination ever. She definitely has her grandma's genes! She's an artist in whatever task she undertakes. She draws, she writes, she photographs, she models. She is just amazing!

She is a Taurus through and through . . . stubborn as anything, but she is also determined, dedicated, and tenacious as a pit bull. She is a caregiver, a lover of animals, enjoys the beauty of God's earth, and loves to laugh. She is fearless and a force to be reckoned with.

She is an extraordinary young woman who has and will continue to do extraordinary things. I am so blessed by her existence. She is my most favorite daughter in all the world!

Deanna Sarene . . . my 'beautiful calm'.

Happy Birthday!

Be Kind!

There are a great many things that you can do today.

Here's the healthiest of plans though . . . for absolutely everyone . . .

Make it a point that whomever comes to you, leaves better and happier.
Share kindness!
Kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile, kindness in your heart, kindness in your hug, kindness in your soul!

It is a precious gift that costs you nothing and provides you with a happy heart and a better world!

Go Be Kind!

Groaring . . .

Yes . . . you are correct . . . that is not really a word.

It is, however, the conglomeration of:  Grounded and Soaring.

That is what last night's dinner function did for me (and hopefully a few others). Last night was the "Recipe for Success" Guild General Meeting dinner for the All Children's Hospital Guild folks. An entire room full of people whose hearts beat collectively for a much bigger purpose.

We were grounded in the stories of why we are supporting the hospital's Pediatric Palliative Care Program. Because Henry wouldn't make it through a February weekend, but wanted to see Christmas . . . so they made it happen. Because another little child had so many medical issues he'd really never lived anywhere BUT the hospital and this wonderful team trained his family to take care of him and he is thriving at home, where they wanted him. And for the cancer patient whom they dressed and had driven to attend her high school graduation ceremony and then brought her back to continue treatment. These moments and stories keep us focused on why we do what we do.

We were soaring with the possibilities of what is to come. We completed the first third of our pledge to the Pediatric Palliative Care Program. $300,000+ in just one year! And what made it so special is that we did it as a group. There was not one single person in the room looking for kudos or back-patting. Together we can achieve magical things. The sky's the limit and we may even move beyond that!

It was an entire room of Ch-Angels looking to throw credit everywhere but at their own feet. THIS is why I'm involved with this group. THIS is the attitude I so believe in. All the drama and nonsense seems to simply melt away when you are surrounded with the proper purpose-driven people. I am blessed to be a part of this group.

In fact . . . I am Groaring!

Enjoy the sun . . .

The sun does not shine for a few trees and flowers, but for the wide world's joy.
~ Henry Ward Beecher

You deserve the warmth of the sun.
You deserve the brilliance of the light.
You deserve the comfort of a cozy respite.
You deserve the glory of a generous good deed.

These are not things that should be bestowed only upon the rich and famous. These things are not reserved for only the elite. These are not blessings that are savored by only the minute few.

YOU are as important and vibrant and beautiful as ANY other soul out there.

Realize your value.
Realize your worth.
Realize your difference.
Grasp it and be proud of it.

Enjoy the sun . . .

Get Back

Sometimes you can sabotage yourself by becoming the proverbial rat-in-the-maze.

You become so entrenched in just the daily rituals and chores that you forget to seek out, find, and do what truly inspires you.

Work, grocery store, chores, bed. Work, pay bills, chores, bed. Work, drink, chores, bed. Work, grocery store, chores, bed. A tireless hamster wheel of seemingly getting no where fast.

Today . . . change it up.

Get back to what you love!

Enjoy reading? Let the cleaning slide and turn a few pages.

Enjoy walking? Push bed off for 30 minutes and take a stroll.

Enjoy the beach? Take your checkbook to the beach and pay your bills there.

Find what moves you, stirs your soul, ignites your passions, and makes your heart happy.

Get back to that . . . and the maze becomes less tedious!

Get back!

Enjoy!

Find peace and be well

One of my all time favorite songs has some of the best lyrics EVER!
Whatever you believe this song is about, I hope your bridge is nearby.

When you're weary, feeling small
When tears are in your eyes, I will dry them all
I'm on your side when times get rough
and friends just can't be found
Like a bridge over troubled water, I will lay me down
Like a bridge over troubled water, I will lay me down

When you're down and out, when you're on the street
When evening falls so hard, I will comfort you
I'll take your part, when darkness comes
and pain is all around
Like a bridge over troubled water, I will lay me down
Like a bridge over troubled water, I will lay me down

Sail on Silver Girl, sail on by
Your time has come to shine, all your dreams are on their way
See how they shine, if you need a friend
I'm sailing right behind
Like a bridge over troubled water, I will ease your mind
Like a bridge over troubled water, I will ease your mind

My bridge has come in many shapes, sizes, and personalities . . . but they have all originated from the same source!

Today . . . find peace and be well.

Little Things

Most folks hope and wish they could win the lottery. (I think, maybe, we all do!) Some folks look toward great achievements and big changes. Other folks want to alter their appearance or move where the grass is greener or think there is a 'right time' to have a baby, buy a house, get a car, etc.

For me . . . that's just all hogwash!

There definitely is no 'right time' to have a baby. Without instructions, you kind of just wing it and do the best you can. Love and faith help a lot. The right time to buy a house or a new car is the time when you can get the best deal. Surgically altering your appearance is messing with what God gave you and I don't really believe that's a good thing. You are your own special self. Get comfortable! Promotions feel good, but usually come with more work and expectations. The lottery sure would be nice, but wealth comes in many varieties.

Having dealt with a very interesting history of bumps, hurdles, roadblocks, and mountains, I have learned to enjoy . . . the Little Things. Smiles and laughter from my children. A phone call from a dear friend. An unexpected visit. A letter or card, for no real reason. A memory that sparks a smile. A few unprovoked loving words from the hubby. The saltwater smell sitting by the water's edge. The grand expanse of the great outdoors. The feeling of warm sand between my toes. Crisp mountain air. A hike through nature. Blooming flowers. Being able to witness God's great creatures roaming free.

A happy heart.

Today, stop chasing that elusive and delusional brass ring. Grab hold of the things that are all around you. Enjoy the blessings that abound within your very reach.

I wish you an abundance of Little Things!

A Favorite Ch-Angel

I really was kind of dreading going to work yesterday. I just did not have the old pep in my step. When I got there, one of two of the only drawbacks to work was working with me. A little more dejection. About an hour after starting work, a manager came over the loud speaker and asked me to call him in the back. In doing so, he asked if I would be able to cover for a younger co-worker who had a family emergency. So . . . my already 'iffy' sort of day turned an 11 - 7 shift, into an 11 - 9 pm shift ~ which actually became an 11-10 shift. Dejection became outright grumpiness. While working, this 'drawback' began ~ in her own way ~ to attack some of my favorite co-workers. This day was really not going where I was liking it.

I got away from the counter and began doing go-backs and recovery. This always alleviates some of the stress as I get to interact with the guests and leave the 'drawbacks' behind. As usual, this worked and in a short time, I was perking up a wee bit. Chatting with the customers truly lifts my heart. I enjoy helping folks and I guess I really am a people sort of person. Who knew?

When it came time for my lunch break, I eagerly clocked out and started what always seems like a mile long trek to the break room. As I was almost to the back, and most workers will agree you just put your head down and plow through or inevitably someone will stop you and ask you questions, something told me to cut through lingerie. And there, standing in front of me, is one of my most favorite Ch-Angels from my years on the earth!

Of course I approached her with my usual sarcasm. When she finally realized the sarcasm was directed at her, she lifted her head, smiled, and grabbed me so hard I almost couldn't catch my breath. What a bear hug I got! It was fabulous. This Ch-Angel, RJ, is one of the most beautiful souls alive. We chatted about all sorts of things, but mostly she just cried and hugged me. She's had a rough time of it as of late. A really rough time. She said, "I think I can do this. I know I can do this."

To me, RJ, this was so odd. You are one of the strongest folks I know. You are fearless, undaunted, determined, persistent, bold, beautiful (inside and out), and brave. I would never have questioned your abilities to conquer ANY thing. You are, and always have been, inspiring and uplifting. Please don't ever underestimate yourself. I know you think you are alone, but you are not. You are surrounded by folks who love you and care about you. And . . . you are all those things I just wrote!

You, on more occasions than you know, lifted me up and gave me the strength to continue on when I was not so sure of my own self. For that, I will ALWAYS be here for you . . . for a hug, a cry, a laugh, and yes . . . at your request . . . even a beverage!

Love you, my Ch-Angel RJ. You really CAN do this! Chin up. Knees down!

xoxo
And, by the way, YOU gave me the strength to work til 10 pm . . . with a smile on my face!

Mothers

Mother's Day is Sunday!

What a fabulous day. A day to acknowledge an individual who works for nine months before there is even a person to lather love upon. Once that baby is born, there is just never a second, a minute, an hour, a day, a week, a month, a year, a tiny moment that goes by that the Mother is not thinking about, concerned about, worried for, praying for, loving that child.

It is a full time job (and by full time, I mean 24/7/365), without pay and no insurance. It is a task that takes tremendous patience, strength, and endurance. Being a Mother is the biggest leap of faith that is offered. You are not only creating life, you are building, molding, shaping a heart and a mind and human being. There are no manuals, no instruction guides, no do-overs, no days off or vacations.

It is, however, through the hours, the sweat, the tears, and the anxiety . . . the best job ever! The benefits are amazing and the pride experienced is completely indescribable!

To all you Mothers out there . . . enjoy the day! Know that you have tackled a terrific task. We don't have all the answers, and sometimes we make mistakes, but Mothers never give up. We are a constant. A force to be reckoned with. A quiet, beautiful strength wrapped in dirt and grass stains and persistence.

To the Mothers who have moved on . . . you've left a gaping hole that cannot be filled. But . . . more than that, and most importantly . . . you've left a determined, dedicated, strong-willed child who can endure and will . . . because that is the legacy you left!

Love to you all! Happy Mother's Day!

Viewpoint

We all face times of turbulence.
We all face times of confusion.
We all face time of uncertainty.

You will weather the storm.
You will survive.
You will endure.

And when you do . . .

Always look at what you have left.
Never look at what you have lost.
~ Robert H. Schuller

How Beautiful . . .

How beautiful a day can be when kindness touches it.

This week belongs to two equally amazing groups of people:

Nurses and Teachers

I'm not sure that mere words can do justice to the amazing feats these folks perform on a regular, daily basis.

You teacher types not only take on the overwhelming responsibility of educating our future leaders, but a vast majority of you do it with a joy and zeal that astounds me. You babysit, guide, set limits, push boundaries, empower, restrain, regulate, manipulate, listen, parent, love, care, and offer the world to those that choose to reach for it. You do this for little to ridiculous pay, offer your own money and time, and all because you want to see that growth in a young mind. You are sometimes yelled at by ignorant parents, badgered by bully children, constantly bogged down in the muck that is red tape, extra duties, and budgets. And still . . . you are eager to change the lives and hearts and minds of our youth. Thank you!

You nurse people have every ounce of respect I can muster. What you do, day in and day out, makes me dizzy. The nurses I have had the privilege of knowing, on any given day, do all the regular stuff like taking blood pressures, weighing in patients, listening to heart beats, chests, and taking temperatures. And then . . . Wow! You draw blood, start IV's, soothe screaming infants, rub anxious feet, calm and coax, explain the unexplainable, make everything available and possible for the doctors, and divert and distract. You float through codes like boxers in a ring - second nature. There's no hecticness or hesitation. You have around you the aura of angels - caring and sharing and giving and love. And then . . . there's more! You move on the families of the patients. You ensure their sanity and their stability. You encompass entire rooms of fear-filled family with a positive sign and smile, or a truly heart-felt and sincere explanation. Thank you!

If you happen to run into someone from either of these groups today or this week, please be sure to offer them a world of thanks. As chaotic as having teenagers learning imaginary numbers or an undiagnosed sick child can be . . . know that these folks - these nurses and teachers - take on these tasks willingly and joyfully . . . for you . . . and for the children.

How beautiful a day can be when kindness touches it!

Meaning of Life

Relax . . . it's NOT another Monty Python reference!

This is a quick quote that encompasses, well, . . . me!

"The Meaning of Life is to Find your Gift.
The Purpose of Life is to Give it Away."
~ Pablo Picasso

I have done a variety of jobs. I have applied myself toward many tasks. I have enduring countless hours of training and instruction. I enjoy a great many activities.

I find myself happiest giving of my time and my self trying to make other people happy. I'm not sure it's a 'gift,' but I will give whatever I'm able in pursuit of a better situation for another soul.

Go find YOUR gift . . .

then give it away!

Moments

Life is made up of moments.

Some take your breath away. Some leave you staggering. Some startle you. Some frighten you. Some enlighten you. Some embolden you. Some buoy you. Some strengthen you.

All are special, important, and vital.

My husband has a way of shocking those moments into our lives. He is a warm and loving person, but not so much in public. He is not all warm and fuzzy and mushy, unless we are sharing a moment in which he thinks that is appropriate.

A few days ago, he shocked me with a warm, mushy moment that I'm certain will stick with me for a long, long time.

He was telling me about his crazy restaurant people and his travels and what he sees and comes across during those travels. One of his favorite times of year is when he's north of us and sees the baby Sand Hill Cranes. They are big, beautiful creatures that sounds like pterodactyles when they squawk. It's actually a little scary.

Apparently, these big, beautiful birds are not too smart. They walk and feed and bring their young roadside without any fears or hesitation. Because of their size, the short flights begin low and, unfortunately, almost certainly into traffic. So he said to me, in the middle of all his ramblings, "Here's this beautiful family and then one gets killed. It's so sad. They mate for life and now the one is just left all alone - forever. And the baby only has one parent."

Now, I'm not sure if he does these things just for shock value. But, I think that he occasionally slips up and allows that beautiful interior of his to be seen. My heart just melted. How this strapping, brute of a man can be so choked up about a bird, just gives me hope for the whole world. It is a beautiful moment to have been a part of. He's a special guy.

Today, I hope you have a moment!

Soldier On

Every day, we are faced with a multitude of challenges. Everything from simply getting out of bed, to what to wear, to how to face a full schedule, to what's for dinner, helping with homework, paying bills, and a million things in between.

And then . . . there are those of us who face all of those challenges along with an illness.

Whether it is your own illness, or you are the caregiver for someone with an illness, the every day challenges are multiplied ten-fold. Simple tasks are not so simple. Little choices become monumental. Life can sometimes seem unbearable.

But . . .

You must Soldier On!

There is actually a video on YouTube called Soldier On by Penny Lane. If you can find it, watch it. It is about and for "Cure JM". This is the disease that robbed my son Miles of so many years. It is a brutally honest viewpoint of a family's struggle with the disease and things that the kids face. I cried the whole way through it. It truly is amazing and very well done.

Monday is "Wishbone Day". A day which brings awareness to Osteogenesis Imperfecta (Brittle Bone Disease) and which has targeted a dear little friend of mine, Oliver. He has suffered much in his short little life, but he too must Soldier On.

My son works with a beautiful young lady who struggled through a brutal battle with cancer as a youngster. She is now a beaming, stunning, personable asset to the world. She did her part to Soldier On. She's fantastic!

So . . . if this offers some perspective on picking out an outfit or perhaps what to make for dinner, then good. If you are one of the few who has to face much more difficult decisions every day then please remember . . . chin up, knees down, and . . .

Soldier On!

The Garden of Life

I may have made use of this on a prior occasion, but I really like it. It speaks eloquently and visually of a truth beyond measure.

"The splendor of the rose
and the whiteness of the lily
do not rob the little violet of its scent
nor the daisy of its simple charm.
If every tiny flower wanted to be a rose,
spring would lose its loveliness."
~ Therese of Libieux

Bloom!

Be your own special self!

A Tale of Two Kiddies

"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times . . ."

"Baby A" - born into a tumultuous extended family steeped in excessive anger, denial, selfishness, and ignorance. Born to unexpectant youth, this innocent life does not deserve the turmoil and misgivings that surround it. This beautiful soul has provided a beacon of pure and precious light to a gloomy world. This baby has transformed two wandering souls into caring, loving, incredible parents that this baby, and any other, would be thrilled to have. This "Baby A" has brought with it a glorious opportunity of love and peace and perfection . . . to those that choose to accept it!

"Baby B" - born to hard working parents, who suffered great loss, but would sacrifice everything to have and hold this baby. Through faith and fortitude, they brought forth a charming and handsome life whose brilliant eyes and coy smile would melt the frozen glaciers. This blessing has turned a stylish professional into a beaming, covered in Ritz crumbs mother who would have things no other way. A priceless joy! A gift that came after much grieving has enlightened the hearts of anyone near "Baby B"!

Babies are sparkling symbols of all that is right in the world. They are untarnished and guiltless and absolute. They are messengers of untainted and unconditional love. The exultation of holding such a miracle is nearly indescribable. Complete and overwhelming contentment.

And to be a parent:

"It is a far, far better thing that I do, than I have ever done . . ."

Be Alive

I've taken a couple bits and pieces of several favorite little quotes and mashed them all together. Sometimes, I think putting a couple things together creates a much better, more effective version than pieces individually!

Be aware of wonder.
Live a balanced life . . .
learn some and
think some and
draw some and
paint some and
sing some and
dance some and
play some and
work every day some.
Don't be afraid . . . be alive!

Hit the floor running. Do what makes you happy. Make a difference. Be a difference.

Be alive!