Simple Pleasures… Plain & Simple, in Black & White (16 of 29)

Tuesday night = “Bowling Night” in my current stage of life.  We’re about halfway through the season, and it's an absolute blast.  One of the perks of bowling in this particular league is the social interaction.  Thankfully, not only are my team members extremely engaging, but everyone in this league, has a great time and they’re all enjoyable to be around (win or lose.)

Interesting thought tonight though … I’m the lowest scoring “scratch” bowler on the team.  The averages of my teammates are significantly higher.   We're outranking semi-pro bowlers…  you know, those people who actually bowl perfect 300 games.  Midway through the season, we are in first place, how ironic with "low-scoring Tawnda" on the team! 

The reality that hit me tonight, is that this pin shortfall is my greatest contribution to the team’s performance. (Once those handicaps kick in at the end of each game, boom… it almost looks like I know what I’m doing!)  

As is typical of me, I gave this ironic spin a considerable amount of thought tonight.  Much like the shortfall that benefits the team… in life I believe our individual shortfalls may be assets.  Failed relationships, finances gone awry, sickness, poor choices, legal problems, prodigal children, etc. are hard.  At the same time, these challenging life experiences are also phenomenal teachers. 

The drawbacks in life, once navigated – give us wisdom to make more informed decisions in and for the future.  The painful stuff of life also causes us to be more sensitive to the plight of others.  Pain can build character, and no question –  pain endured and overcome makes us far more interesting humans.  Setbacks also make us grateful.  

To close the loop here - Don't waste the lessons learned and the inspiration received in the midst of  “handicaps, shortcomings and gutter balls."  Enrich the life of those around you with non-judgmental humility, and encouragement. If not a relationship you have the freedom to “speak in to” then by all means,  still be empathetic. 

  

For me personally, the people in my life that have gone through the hard stuff …garner more respect.  Their opinions matter more to me - because they've been tested and shaped by the storms of life.   

Most definitely, I’m all about doing my best – and on Tuesday nights… my best falls short when it comes to raw bowling scores.  However, in bowling and in life - I’ll just keep aiming for the middle while continuing to find joy in the game.  

Slipped off my Sperry's & put on my very cool, germ-free
bowling shoes... (in a lovely shade of teal... trust me.)

Tonight’s bowling related “simple joys”

·       * My very own shoes (not a fan of rentals!)

·        *A great group of people each week!

       *Lots of laughs/Discounted beer (bonus) 

·        * Handicaps -  with them, we can still         “win” (bowling & in life!)

Simple Pleasures… Plain & Simple, in Black & White (15 of 29)

Since moving in to my house almost a year ago, my new address has been a respite. It literally feels like a cozy hug, every time I walk in... that's how home SHOULD feel.  Before moving in, I had planned on installing a security system – especially now that it’s widely known I live solo.

Intentions weren’t carried through until now.  Thankfully, the system is in place and it’s just one more layer of “peace.” Knowing that every door and window has a sensor is comforting, especially, when on occasion I hear an unfamiliar noise on another floor of the house. ADT is monitoring 24/7 for smoke, heat, and intruders... so if a fire ever breaks out while I’m away, or sleeping soundly, they'll send help my way.  Being once again a sound sleeper – this is key! 

ADT  put a note on my account that there are two beloved felines living here… so in the event of an emergency, first responders will be alerted.  (With several friends on the local fire department … they’d likely know to get them to safety in my absence...but again, it's another layer of coverage.)

Obviously, I pray there’s never an issue, but now I'm at least better prepared. It may not seem a big deal to some, but I’m extremely grateful for this added layer of protection. 

It's time for some treasured deep sleep... goodnight.

Simple Pleasures… Plain & Simple, Looking Back.. in Black & White and Red... (14 of 29)

Valentine’s Day annoys the crap out of me.  It must have been a brilliant marketing strategy by someone in the Greeting card/Gift industry… capitalizing on superficial romantic love, and encouraging insincerity among couples.  In fact, this must have been such a lucrative business move that “Administrative Professionals Day”, “Boss’s Day”, “Pastor Appreciation MONTH” eventually followed. Valentine’s is the absolute worst though.  Hear me out; this is not at all because I find myself single.  “Hallmark Holidays” were equally loathed when I was married …for the most part.

When the children were little, it was great fun helping them decorate “shoeboxes" for school parties and aiding in selecting just the right Disney/Power Ranger/ Barbie/ /Pokemon, etc.  sentiment from the assorted packs for each of their classmates.  At the time, it didn’t seem like a bad precedence was being established which would lead to inflated romantic expectations later. (still doesn’t.)  Those were fun years! 

my babies... miss this age so much sometimes.

Once my cherubs made it to the tween years, whether my then-husband was traveling or not, I began a new tradition with them. On Valentines Evening, we would have a very formal dinner, usually with Shrimp Scampi as the main course. (Chocolate covered strawberries were a "must"... and still often are!) There were many reasons for celebrating as a family.   It was a special time gathered as a family, we celebrated familial love, and as a bonus, it was another opportunity to help my little ones become accustomed to dining on fine china and employing proper etiquette! They actually seemed to enjoy these times as well.

As the years progressed, and my little ones approached dating  –   intentional (still enjoyable) discussions were held around the table about their future spouses.  We talked seriously about relationships and expectations.  We discussed Gary Chapman’s “The Five Love Languages.”  It was fun to talk about each of their own "wiring" and it was fun to see if they could pick up on others'. So, those years, Valentines Day was special…on yet a different level.

Fast forward a bit, my children became adults… no longer was there a family Valentine’s Dinner. I had an increasing soft spot for widows though, maybe because both of my grandmothers had been widowed, perhaps because I “adopted” another grandma at church who was a widow herself. 

Suzanne...aka "Gram" - my adopted grandma.

My heart’s prompting turned to action.  Several years ago, I obtained “approval” and a budget for a Valentine's Banquet in Honor of All Widows.  At the time, I rallied several staff friends to serve food, refill beverages, play background music, take formal portraits, usher, host, set the tables with fine china, etc.  It was a huge team effort and I’m so grateful to have been part of that team for so long. 

Several of the servers/ushers that made the Banquets special!

On the first of several Banquet days, I watched closely as every detail unfolded. Well-dressed ladies were escorted to their tables by one of many gentlemen, wearing white button downs and red bow ties.  The sounds of classical piano and viola softly welcomed them as they found the place that had been lovingly and beautifully set just for them.  Gifts for each of the ladies were put in their hands as they left.  In the gift bags were several carefully chosen items, including a very quickly framed formal photo – of them, to take home.  The photographer took photos upon their arrival and while lunch was being served, "runners" were EXPEDIENTLY getting photos developed and in to the appropriate frames.  There was a lot of preparation going in to these events, but so, so worth it!

Side note:  I’ve learned that this demographic (keep in mind - all widows are not elderly) is too often overlooked by the camera lens. Having framed professional photos to take home seemed a good idea, but the impact was priceless... 

The responses from that inaugural Valentine's event literally blew me away.  Each thank you note was a treasure.  One sweet lady called after receiving the invitation. She was sobbing – in the 20+ years that she had been without her husband, not one person had acknowledged her on Valentines in any way.  The actual banquet hadn't occurred yet - so just to have been invited 

touched her heart.  

"Gram" & Sally... 2 faces I miss dearly! 

So, it’s true – I’m not a fan of “manufactured” or forced romantic gestures on this Hallmark Holiday, however, the phone call(s), grateful words, hugs and smiles on the faces of these women – made Valentine’s Day truly meaningful that first year and each that followed.  

Having left my position several months ago, I sit here wondering what the Banquet was like this year.  On one hand, my heart is a little heavy because I wasn’t part of something that felt like “my baby.”  On the other hand, knowing years later, the widows from FBC are still being honored and loved on by the team I left behind, fills my heart.

A pastor/friend encouraged me recently.  He pointed out that a big part of my legacy at the place I invested so much of my adult life -  is the annual Valentine's Banquet.  I hadn’t thought about it, but suppose it’s true.  The thought pleases me.   

My Valentine’s Date this year is quiet, introspective, writes a lot while sitting at a table – and is not at all social today.  My date has learned to not just be comfortable dining alone, but finds it rather enjoyable at times.  My “date” is simply grateful for the memories of Valentine’s Days past…. those very special meaningful times... not the "Hallmark stuff."

These reflections are so much more meaningful than a card, candy, or jewelry prompted by a calendar.  (Any other day of the year - BRING IT ON.) For now, it's time to dig into some Extra hot Buffalo tenders ... how "romantic" right?   Actually, it's pretty perfect.

1/2 & 1/2 tea & copious amounts of water to wash down
the perfectly un-dainty, non-formal, solitary dinner:
Buffalo  Tenders,  celery, & lots of blue cheese,!
PERFECTION.

me, myself, and my date.

Simple Pleasures… Plain & Simple, slightly a mess - and in Black & White (13 of 29)

Being on “sabbatical” makes every night a Friday night… and every morning a Saturday.  Sometimes I’ve got to look at my phone to see what day it actually is, because the days are running together so very easily, and the time I’ve taken off from the “working world” is going by at lightning speed!  However, today is actually a Saturday… and I get to spend most of it with a fabulous girlfriend.  

Needing a quick caffeine boost before meeting Michelle, I’m waiting for the Keurig to warm up and I'm staring at perhaps the messiest cabinet in my entire house.  Yet, my OCD doesn’t kick in… Here’s why.

Multiple cats, butterflies, Wonder Woman themed,
Inspirational, & Scrabble mugs, along with Starbucks
 souvenirs from around the world greet me daily.
Some times  it really is the "Little Things." 

Each of the casual mugs in this frequented cupboard means something special to me.  90% were gifts from my children which automatically make them cherished.  What makes each mug especially significant is that I’m "known" by my 3 cherubs and by the friends who've contributed to this collection.  (Several missing are in the dishwasher...so this conglomeration would be even more disturbing to the analytical eye if they were clean...you're welcome.) 

 If you know me well at all, you know there is special significance to butterflies, cats, and yes – for many years “Wonder Woman.” So, this is indeed a simple pleasure for which I’m grateful… a treasure trove of mugs symbolizing people, places, events and meaningful things that are treasured in my heart now and always.  This cupboard may be slightly a mess… but that’s okay… its representative of me.  (I’m definitely slightly a mess…. on my best of days!)

Still, this little mess before me makes me smile.  It's like a little daily hug.  Boom.

(Coffee’s done… time to come alive…there’s a full, fun day ahead.)

Simple Pleasures… Plain & Simple, Male & Female, & in Black & White (12 of 29)

There is a myth that guys and girls cannot be friends - in some cases, that may be true.  However, I have ALWAYS had a core group of guy friends.  Typically, they are easier going and seem to possess a bit more emotional stability than "many" females. My male compadres tend to be as averse to drama as I…which is a HUGE BONUS.  Fortunately, there are a handful of great guys I can honestly say I love as a brother. Because of their presence in my life, a steady sweet protective spirit, and an air of authenticity (and fun) enriches my life. 

One “brother” has been around over 2 ½ decades…and is one of my longest lasting, most meaningful friendships. Over the last 2 ½ decades, he has changed tires; rescued me when my mustang was stuck on ice; moved me and my daughter from one apartment to another, and so forth. More than anything, he’s been there for me on days I couldn’t stop crying…and yes, he’s been there on days I’ve struggled with dating dilemmas - decades ago, and now again as I find myself navigating single life.    

The oldest digital pic I could find...There are many "prints"
in boxes that I really need to scan...some priceless ones! 

Between us, we’ve weathered 3 marriages, several wounds, loss, disappointments, and lots of “life stuff” – the good and the bad.   D is a friend that I can talk about absolutely ANYTHING with …and believe me, we do cover it all. Having experienced several unique parallel struggles, we are clothed in similar scars – both emotional and physical. (We are quite literally “titanium friends” …having matching scars on our right arms!)

We can and do - debate any topic.  There is agreement on most big issues, but not on all. He does challenge my thinking at times... which is a good thing.  A friendship of this caliber allows freedom to be transparent without judgment.  

Nowadays, a huge plus is his ability to speak openly as I navigate single life… and ugh – slightly dip the proverbial toe in to the  “dating world” (the very thing I said I’d never do again...and I’m not completely convinced it’s for me.) D’s insights into the complex male psyche are priceless and he seems to know a bit about the female psyche as well… it’s scary, at times.

Because of our history – up until now, he has known – (or in one case, he met) every guy I’ve ever dated.  I can honestly not say that of any other friend or family member. Years ago, we lived in the same apartment complex and ran in the same circles.  Those were fun times... and it probably never dawned on me that this guy would still be in my life 25 years later.  Thankfully, he is. (funny side note: the first time I met my ex was actually because of D.... I've jokingly given him a hard time about it… all in fun, of course.  It’s really just another thread woven in the tapestry of a long friendship.)

Lunches and dinner "updates" are usually full of  laughter, and on occasion, tears. (Often, my tears end and laughter ensues because he has the ability to lighten the mood.) Regardless of the conversation, I always leave with a smile on my face, a giant bear hug, and increasing gratitude for this guy.  He tells it like it is… without being offensive or condemning.  I need that in my life.  We all do!

 

So, for today’s entry in the Gratitude Journal: 

I’m beyond grateful for this enduring friendship, and for the fact that he texted to see if I was available for lunch.  Lunch turned in to a movie and of course, throughout the few hours we hung out, there was much meaningful dialogue with my forever friend. What a gift he is to me.

Yes, guys and girls can be friends…and treasured friends at that.

PS – “D” doesn’t like having anyone make a big deal about him, so if you happen to read this …and you actually know him, then “shhhhhh” don’t say a word!

Simple Pleasures: Plain & Simple (in black & white, & imperfect flesh tones) 11 of 29

John Mayer sings “Your body is a Wonderland.”  It’s a great song…but if I knew nothing more than the title and catchy chorus…I could say it applies to my body.”  (Bummer, clearly not the case!)

Your body is a wonderland
Your body is a wonder (I'll use my hands)
Your body is a wonderland

The reality is, my body could cause an onlooker to “wonder.”  I’m a 5’9, 140 lb living, and breathing bulletin board covered in “mementos" from the journey I've been traveling since birth..”

From the very top of my head, to the very tip of my right toe, assorted scars illustrate various chapters of my ongoing biography.  A near fatal accident, 4 early stage cancers, blatant stupidity, and other life experiences have resulted in quite a collection of imperfections on an already imperfect body.  Yep, it's a wonder... 

There was a time when I did everything possible to cover visible scars… especially, the more pronounced ones.  There were summers that sleeveless tops were not an option because I didn’t want anyone to see the horrific scarring on my upper right arm.  When I had thyroid surgery a few years ago, I bought several scarves and turtlenecks in anticipation of the “mutilation” I’d have to conceal.  Perhaps that was a season of vanity…. (Just think, TP… you didn’t even know me then!)  Now I proudly wear sleeveless tops and love that I have a dear friend with an identical scar in the precise same location.  (We're titanium friends... literally!)

(note the corresponding description/link to each # below)

Probably more significant than some of my physical scars are the ones that no one sees.  There are a multitude of emotional scars below the surface.  In earlier adult years I saw myself as strong, independent and yes – as a survivor.  Somewhere later though, “I” got lost and those positive self-assessments were replaced with self-deprecating thoughts and doubts.  Thankfully, with time and proper guidance – we grow into a better version of our younger selves. (I think I’m grasping the familiar quote “youth is wasted on the young.”)  Priorities change, perspectives mature and we become more comfortable in our own flawed skin and aging bodies.  This is not a stretch at all – the scars on my body and below my skin,  are souvenirs from challenges and injuries overcome… and I’m profoundly grateful for what each represents. 

3 years ago, in tears…I said to my therapist, “I’m an enabler… I’ve enabled too many people in my life...and they’ve all hurt me in some way.”   His attitude changed, and his voice got more stern than “comforting.” Looking directly at me, he said… “STOP!  YOU ARE A SURVIVOR!  I know what you’ve been through.  You’ve always done what was necessary for survival.  You’re still here….yes, you need to recover, yes - you need time to heal, but YOU ARE STILL HERE.”

Those words were not a healing salve; they were electrifying shocks from an AED that revived a dying heart and crushed spirit. Dr. P’s words, and many sessions of working through a bunch of CRAP were all crucial to moving forward, and healing. 

I’ve survived a lot.  (Seriously, my life has a strange “Lifetime Movie” vibe.) Scars are another example of redemption. Nothing that we journey through – regardless of how, or why… is wasted, unless we waste it. I’m thankful for every blemish.  Each prompts recollection of an unrequested, painful, yet ultimately, cherished experience.  Each tells a bit of the story of how “I” became the “Me” that exists today.  

Lastly, each imperfection serves as a reminder of a responsibility to others - drawn from the well of experience that has been only mine to partake.  Lessons learned - must be shared.  Encouragement received – must be passed on to others.  (Encouragement coming from someone who has navigated similar trials is a great comfort to a suffering friend…I’ve been on both ends of the equation.)

Don’t waste scars...redeem them.

Here's an overview of my "Wonderland Memo Board."  

Physical Souvenir	Origin	Read more of the story here:
1.    Boomerang shaped Scar on top of      head. Barely visible nowadays.	Hit by a car at the age of 15 – the giant gash on my head was from a road sign that my head clipped as I was catapulted through the air…	http://tawnda.blogspot.com/2010/06/broken-bones-scars-and-ugly-blue-pintos.html more on the accident that almost ended my life…but ultimately brought many physical changes
2.    On my neck – barely visible	Total Thyroidectomy (pre-cancerous tumor)	http://tawnda.blogspot.com/search?q=ode+to+thyroidina (wow – I forgot how corny that was… must’ve been the Percocet.)
3.    Right Humerus – Metal Plate	Same pedestrian accident as #1	http://tawnda.blogspot.com/search?q=blood Another perspective on the same accident…years later
4.     Early detected breast cancer	3 different occurrences over 5 years	------------
5.     Early detected breast cancer	No chemo/radiation necessary	------------
6.     Early detected breast cancer	3 lumpectomies w/extensive margins removed due to atypical hyperplasia	------------
7.     Emergency C-Section	My favorite scar of all…  -> ->  ->  ->  ->	http://tawnda.blogspot.com/2010/08/what-difference-nineteen-years-make.html
8.     Left Wrist – Quarter size/shaped	Also from the pedestrian accident	This scar used to be far more evident and I literally wore a watch for the sole purpose of covering it… now it only shows up vividly if I’m in the sun…
9.     Right pelvic bone///bone graft	Same pedestrian accident as #1	------------
10.     Right Big Toe/Pins (bunion!)	Delayed injury from years of ballet	Metal parts in right arm & right foot/Bionic Woman!
11.     Left arch – (this is the souvenir of youth & stupidity)	Stepped on broken glass on dance floor	Too much liquid courage as a barely 18  year old college student at O’Malley’s in Athens with friends… (It was bleeding so much I thought someone spilled a red slushy on my sandals… not fun.)

Simple Pleasures… Plain & Simple, in grey... & Red, White & Blue (9 of 29)

  It's one of those funny Georgia weather days again.  Knowing how to dress the months of November through March each year is a little like Roulette. Granted, I reach for the shorts and flipflops any time it even looks remotely warm and sunny BUT...

TODAY is most definitely a thick sweater and rain boots kind of day... it's SNOWING!  

The little girl awakens within me and excitedly watches for the magical white powder as it drifts from grey skies.

The view from my dining room...  one  of my
favorite places to observe the outdoors - year round.  

Seeing Old Glory waving in the wind, little girl in me quickly transitions back to the patriotic grown woman - proud to be an American and very proud to be the Mom of a United States Marine.

My thoughts instantly go to a much snowier place, to Washington DC 

where my baby boy currently lives and serves this great country.

Funny how some rabbit trails are reminders of a multitude of blessings... 

Grateful smiles abound on this beautifully grey-skied February day...

This is one of my favorite pictures from Tyler's time at 8th & I in Washington, DC.
He is in the very front , with the blood stripe on his pants and carrying a sword.  That's my baby boy.
The absolute best son anyone could ask for....

Simple Pleasures… Plain & Simple, in Black & White (8 of 29)

I gave myself a pass of sorts...

Down with a cold, and an overly medicated brain....and no one to answer to but myself.

Today's simple pleasure for which I'm grateful is...

Just being me.... and being free to be me, warm pjs, a fire, 2 kitties, and lots of sleep...

Life with a cold.... well, it's still a good day! (and quite restful)

Simple Pleasures… Plain & Simple, in Black & White...& calico (7 of 29)

My atypical Super Bowl setup/& weekend infirmary
(my 4 legged nurse in napping on the job)

Super Bowl Sunday… being the avid football fan (not), Super Bowl has always meant a cornucopia of delectable gastronomic delights, festive beverages, and fun with friends.  Granted, I’m typically the one in front of the tv for the commercials… and definitely for the halftime show.  (You can find me refilling my beverage during game time.)

                                                                                                                                     

Still, the weekend cold that knocked me “out of the game” so to speak caused me to cancel Super Bowl plans with friends and stay home to further recuperate.  It was the right play to make… No need in exacerbating my cold or risking the health of good friends. It was a necessary "time out." 

Lying here watching the game (commercials)… it’s as if my 2 four-legged "housemates"  know I’m not feeling great.  They are both extra cuddly today.  Bella is even laying her head on my foot as I'm writing these thoughts. 

They make being alone…far less lonely, especially on days like today.  They are slightly spoiled…but “why not?”  Having doted on my 3 human children all their lives, I needed another place to invest my maternal energies. Granted, many if not most of my friends are “dog people.”  Whenever they come around, they typically agree that in many ways my 2 beautiful calicos are more like their canine counterparts than expected.  Unlike many cats, they are both very social…very playful and they are both extremely cuddly...and oftentimes HILARIOUS!

 

Lily at 6 weeks... in Kimmie's lap
(she's always had beautiful eyes - although they turned green
and are incredibly intense)

 

 Living alone for the first time in my life, it’s comforting to have Lily & Bella around.  When I get home, they meet me at the top of the stairs.  (They've learned to identify the sound of the garage door opening as a signal of my arrival.)  When I leave, they often jump up on the window sill to watch me back out of the driveway.  If I'm in the bath tub, Bella is sitting on the side of the tub.  If I'm getting ready for bed, they both jump to the foot of the bed and take their places.  They are great roommates, make little mess, and are fairly low maintenance. 

Miss Lily these days...with those gorgeous eyes!

There have probably never been two more cherished pets to walk the earth.  (God forbid the thought - they’ve never actually “walked the Earth”.)  The only times they’ve breathed outside air is while in a carrier in route to and from the vet.  They are almost 5 years old…and I am hopeful they will be with me for at least another 15 or more years. 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            

Tiny Bella at 6 weeks - of course by the food bowl
(she now weighs in at 15 lbs.)

Today’s treasure for which I’m most grateful?  Lily and Bella.  Sisters since birth…and much loved by me, their adoptive mom since they were 6 weeks old.  (Incidentally, loving them as I do - has actually helped me to be an animal lover of all kinds... yes, I even have friends with dogs that are quite enjoyable to be around!)  

Bella sleeps more easily on her back than I do...
(ALL THE TIME!)

Lily sleeps with her eyes covered...often

My calico girls at 6 weeks - TINY ... and I had no idea how much I'd come to love them!

Simple Pleasures… Plain & Simple, in Black & White...and in bright blue (6 of 29)

Saturdays are typically packed with fun social activities…but given this nasty cold, not this one.  This has been a day spent in intermittent slumber, watching countless movies, lots of meds, vitamins, and with a steady aroma of eucalyptus, rosemary and peppermint in the air.  (The good news? I was often able to actually smell those wonderful scents!)

At some point during the day, I wrapped up in a warm blanket and sat on my deck for a bit to breathe some fresh air.  My deck is one of the features that drew me to this house.  The deck makes me forget that I live in the busy city of Roswell with my neighborhood entrance on an 8 lane road.  Sitting here it feels as though I’m living in a remote area of Georgia. 

Fortunately, for me (and my neighbors), the deck is very private with a row of evergreens separating me from the row of houses behind.  With my deck flanked by these beautiful trees, lying in the sun is not so intimidating… and sitting outside in my robe with a cup of coffee or tea is quite comfortable, even in the Georgia winter. 

Not only do the trees create a visual barrier, but a noise buffer as well.  Because of where my house is positioned in the neighborhood and the benefits from the Evergreens, I can sit quietly – often enjoying nature’s choreography.  (Countless birds sing and dance all around.)  This private little respite facilitates some serious thinking, sketching, reading, and writing all the while causing me to forget that I live in the burbs.  It’s a tranquil setting – and in the (almost) year I’ve lived here, I don’t know that there has been a single day when I’ve not sat outside for a bit.  Nature speaks to me in ways it didn’t before…it’s calming yet simultaneously, nature also refreshes my soul and ignites my mind.

No filter - a breathtaking, untouched sky

On this particular February day, while getting fresh air, I was struck by the vibrant blue sky.  It was gorgeous.  The “blue” reminded me of September 11^th.  The recollection of the crystal clear, blue sky that morning before all Hell literally broke loose - has never left me.  In the strangest of ways, I’m glad.  Too easily we forget the watershed moments in our life’s story…. 9/11 was significant to every American. (This could be another entire post on a different day.)

For now, in this moment - I’m grateful for the reminder of that fateful day… for the lives lost in the attacks were not lost in vain.  Countless first responders sacrificed their lives for the benefit of others… and those men and women shall not be forgotten.  My own children were profoundly impacted by the events of that day – with one direct result being my son’s current career in the USMC.  

Why would we want to forget the way our country came together in the days that followed that historic Tuesday morning?  With all the mudslinging currently taking place leading up to the election, it’s good to remember that Democrats and Republicans united for a greater good.  We were literally "United States".  I pray it won’t take another 9/11 to get everyone united once again.

No filter - just a bright blue, untouched sky....and the
trees that gracefully provide a visual barrier between
 me and neighbors on the street behind my house....

Back to the here and now after my mind wandered a bit - the clear blue, beautiful skies are a reminder to never take a moment for granted…as in the case of September 11th, we never know what the next breath holds.  We don’t know who will be next to us, sharing life with us, making us laugh or making us cry.  Embrace the journey, moment by moment, whatever comes. 

Simple Pleasures… Plain & Simple, in Black & White (5 of 29)

A bad cold has kept me down since Friday night (maybe why I failed to post gratitude for a "simple pleasure" Friday prior to bed!)  Before succumbing completely to this cough, it was an evening out with a few fabulously fun girls…enjoying interesting conversation, laughs and one of my all-time favorite things - moving my body to the sounds of great music …out on the dance floor.  (That may have pushed me over the edge, but it was fun at the time!)

My heart is grateful for these girls and a local place to go and be comfortable, "known" and among friends. There aren’t many places nearby where dancing is an option.  So… for the 5^th of February, I’m simply beyond thankful for my local “Cheers” (aka, Guston’s), and beyond warmed by the resulting significant relationships, countless meaningful conversations,  copious amounts of laughter, and calories deliciously consumed.  With a lifelong passion for dance, rooted in a youth filled ballet and jazz - the calories enjoyably burned, and endorphins elevated on the dance floor are a huge bonus!  (Much more fun than the gym!)

Life is good.  Every day is truly a gift ... to be enjoyed fully.  Carpe Diem!