thoughts and prayers

/

It is wonderful having friends stretching all over the United States

But there are moments, like now, when I wish

I could snap my fingers and appear right beside them

So I can hold their hand

Sit with them in silence

Cook them a good meal

And let them breathe just a little bit easier

But I am here

and dear

Liz

is there

And even though we may be far apart

I am holding her and her new family deeply in my heart

Sending her love and healing thoughts

And I ask you to please do the same

Because during difficult times

It helps when we come together

And hold each other tenderly

Please send out your thoughts and prayers

to Liz, John, and their new baby Ellie

And if you feel inclined, go

here

and leave Liz a little message to lift her up

I know she would appreciate it greatly

Ask

/

"Ask and you shall receive." I am sure we have all heard that expression before. But how often do we adhere to it? I know for myself that I find it very difficult to ask. Especially when it is something that touches my soul and means a lot to me.

When it comes to work it is easy. I have no problem asking for help. Why do I find it so difficult then to ask when it really means something to me? The gremlins enter my mind. Telling me that I am not worthy or deserving of what my heart is calling for. "Who am I?" the little voice whispers.

Who am I this voice asks?

I am someone who is pushing forward

Gaining courage and strength to reach for her dreams

I am someone who wears a smile proudly on her face

And has a skip in he step every once in awhile

I am brave

Caring

Kind

And I am fearless

I am someone that will no longer be afraid to ask

I will leap

And I will fly

Playing with Silly String

/

I stood back to back in my tiny apartment with Christian. Each of us armed with one can of Silly String. The rules were simple: walk three steps then turn around and shoot as fast as you can. Laughter filled my apartment as we did this. Each trying to cover the other with the silly string. Who knew two little cans could evoke so much laughter?

We sprayed each other until the cans were completely empty. My terrible aim and closed eyes approach caused silly string to be everywhere. Christians was dead on and left me covered in it from head to toe. It was a blast.

I was never so happy cleaning up a mess as I was with this one. I am still finding evidence of our fun together around my apartment. Each time I do I giggle and a smile instantly forms across my face.

One of the things I love about Christian is his willingness to play. He dives right in and fills the air with his contagious laughter. Playing with the silly string together was no exception.

You should give it a try. I guarantee it will lift your spirits and cause you to giggle. And if you do it, I would love to see photos. Happy playing!

First

/

Do you remember the first time you laughed?

How about the first time you cried?

Or when your eyes first gazed upon the ocean

Or you saw your very first shooting star darting across the sky

Do you remember meeting your very first friend?

Or who took you out on your first date?

How about the first time you held someone's hand

Or your very first kiss

Butterflies swirling around your stomach

That feeling happens the very first time we do anything

Nervous fright mixed with pure excitement

A feeling that cannot be anticipated

It hits you

Fast

Strong

And it is amazing

Nothing compares

To the very first time

You do something

Embrace each first

venture out

/

It is so easy to stay where you are

To fall deeply into your comfort zone

Stay within your routine

Day after day

Following along

This is easy

But every now and then

Someone comes along

And pulls you out

Takes you places you have never been before

Shows you things your eyes have yet to see

They open up your soul

To new adventures

And you are never the same

A mark is left on your heart

Leaving you longing to experience it again

The smiles

The laughter

The comfort

All of it brought on by this magical soul

Holding your hand

Guiding you through a new door

And opening you up

These experiences are cherished for eternity

Deep within your mind

As your wings expand

And you fly