In this shiny new year……be present, dwell in the possibilities, listen to your heart, connect with your soul, invite love in, and shine. Each one of us has a unique light to share….let it sparkle, because you are, without a doubt….imperfectly charming.
Read MoreBuying gifts for my Dad is challenging, when asked what he wants the answer is usually “It’s not necessary to get me a gift” or “I don’t need a thing.” This Christmas was no exception. The only thing my Dad could come up with was t-shirts, but oh, by the way “Your sister already took that idea.” Drat!
Read MoreI was invited away for a weekend to Door County, Wi. The first night coming back to the cabin, the air was crisp with a slight bite of the upcoming winter, and the sky was pitch dark. As I glanced up, it almost took my breath away; just from the beauty of the contrast between the blackish, navy sky and the millions of brilliant, twinkling stars. I could hardly pull my eyes away from the universe above my head, back to the earth below my feet.
Read MoreEach year since my son was two, I have hung a hand made, advent tree for my children to enjoy, which has evolved over the years to the most current one……still tucked away. Reluctantly, last year I decided it would be the final showing for the long standing tradition. It was a sad, but overdue decision; my kids were growing up.
Read MoreWhile entering the theatre, every guest was given a bag of props to use during the movie, and I immediately felt the evening would be entertaining. While rummaging through the prop bag, we examined it’s contents, determining the use for each one. In the background, an elderly man played spirited music on what looked like to be a very old organ.
Read MoreThere are no expectations, other than spending a day with loved ones, enjoying good food, along with familiar family traditions. Like the tradition of peeling and cooking potatoes with my brothers. Funny as it seems, it’s something we look forward to each Thanksgiving. We laugh and joke while peeling a mile high, pile of spuds, that eventually turn into the most delicious mashed potatoes extraordinaire……that we are quite famous for. No matter how many we prepare, there are rarely leftovers.
Read MoreA group of friends gather together every year or so to celebrate with dinner and wine, highlighting a wine’s specific region, country or state; the host’s choice. This year’s hosts decided upon the state of Washington, U.S.A. Each couple was responsible for a course and a Washington wine that paired well with the food.
Read MoreLast month, a friend and I commited to a personal challenge. When planning the challenge, my friend suggested we have our “why”……what makes this commitment important to us, and I immediately said “I’m in.” I just had to dig deep to come up with one that really mattered and spoke to my heart.
Read MoreAs the evening began, we toasted our friendship, and raised our glasses for an evening of “Friendsgiving”. I wasn’t able to make the last three get togethers, so it was fun reconnecting on what I had missed. The meal was filled with turkey, dressing, and traditional fixings, as we all pitched in to create the lavish spread. Like always, a prayer of thanksgiving and friendship was offered, and a few tears were shed in love and gratitude.
Read MoreHe helped shape me into the woman I am today, and taught me unconditional love, humility, bravery and how to love deeper. Even though I miss the days he was a mama’s boy, I take pride in the independent man he has become.mom
Read Moref internal feelings aren’t aligned with external actions, trusting your inner voice helps guides our growth through love and joy. The amazing thing about life, each of us already come equipped knowing our own truth, it’s whether or not we choose to pay close attention that matters.
Read MoreEvery year, I pull out my favorite cold weather things, and always stumble across the same familiar t-shirt. I have treasured this shirt for twenty, possibly twenty five years. It is well worn, with frayed edges, even has a hole or two, but still takes up residence and space, in my closet, and my heart.
Read MoreMy sister was recently in town for an extended period, and hadn’t spent that much time at home in many years. She stayed at my parents home, but I usually saw her everyday. We had a few unplanned adventures that reminded me of our younger selves, growing up on the farm.
Read MoreHave you ever noticed when you express gratefulness, how things always seem brighter? I have a daily gratitude practice that begins my morning on a positive note. It may be as simple as being thankful for the new day, a warming shower, a cozy bed, or deeper gratitude for a loved one’s improving health.
Read MoreThe start of her senior year, she was pumped to kick off her final season, and as usual trained hard all summer preparing for pre-season training. I was excited and yet sad this would be her last year. I spent many hours watching my children play soccer, and wondered what would ever take its place.
Read MoreI put in my $20 and started pushing buttons, but it wasn’t clear to me on what constituted a win. I continued pushing the buttons as I watched my money dwindle……..then all of a sudden I hear a machine that is blaring and practically yelling…..I look up and it’s mine……..it’s so noisy I look around to see if anyone is noticing. It’s loudly announcing I have ten, and then another five free spins. At this point I have no control over the machine.
Read Morere there fears you are facing in your life? I confront plenty in mine, or should I say, I allow them to get into my head and self-doubt usually sets in. If I can turn that self-doubt into determination, things work out as they should, and I am reminded just how awesome and powerful it feels to conquer that fear.
Read MoreWith that small act of kindness and attention to detail, I knew this man had a good work ethic, and would be my handyman and seal-coat guy for life. I was wrong, after a few years he was no longer able to seal-coat my driveway, it wasn’t profitable. I was sad to hear the news, but understood his decision.
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