Saturday, February 18, 2012

Missing my Papa Bear...

Eight years ago tonight 
my world changed forever.  

I never stop wishing for one last talk 
over a cup of coffee.

I never stop hoping for one last 
larger-than-life story 
from your deep booming voice.

I never stop longing for one last hug from your 
hearty bear-like arms.

I will miss you forever.

I will love you always,
Your Sunshine

Thursday, January 5, 2012

Mindfullness

The absolute struggle of staying in the here and now is a challenge so great, I forever fall short.  Recognizing that THIS moment is all that is guaranteed, all any of us have, is a concept hard to contemplate and fully acknowledge.  Seizing the moment, nurturing the present reality, finding clarity, and wholly appreciating the gift at my feet, will be my intentional journey this New Year.

It is clear to me that our lives and daily experiences should be used for creating meaningful and lasting relationships. Learning how to better love and care for those who surround us.  Life is essentially about love.  Loves leaves a legacy, nothing is clearer.  After losing my father, all I had left were his memories and the lessons that he gave me through my lifetime with him.  My father was unmatched in his ability to create and maintain intimate lasting relationships.  People were important to him, a priority for him, he made time for others, his commitment was unmistakable; and when he left this world, it was obvious he had made a difference to many.

Rick Warren writes,
 "The best use of life is love, The best expression of love is time, The best time to love is now."

So I step forward with the best of intentions.  Stay mindful of my many blessings and the indisputable gift of the loving presence of my wonderful family and amazing friends, who are both near and far.  Quiet my mind, be still.... Open up my heart, let the love shine in.  Look to the horizon occasionally and assuredly know my real life has already begun.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Barn's Burnt Down- Now I Can See The Moon...

I am often moved by words so simple, it seems difficult to explain the depth of emotion they evoke.  I find deep comfort in the words I read and at times the words I write. The famous Haiku written by Japanese poet & Samurai warrior Mizuta Masahide speaks to my soul:

Barn's burned down
now
I can see the moon... 

This is the first time I speak publicly of our pilgrimage. We are so proud of our oldest son, Peter.  How moving it is to see his compassion, drive, dedication and courage during his most desperate hour.  He has survived the unimaginable and has gracefully found his way. Peter's world disintegrated... extinguished before his eyes.  How painful it is to watch your child grieve and be able to do nothing.  How difficult it is to grieve for your child, who is grieving for their child.  How helpless you feel, how unimaginable the loss.

We are left to hope that there is a reason for this journey. A purpose yet to be revealed.  It seems we have caught a glimpse of that elusive moon.  How extraordinary Peter's journey and what a blessing it is to watch him emerge from the ruins.  With character, determination, and unconditional love he has persevered from the most desperate of times.  In reverence and admiration, we feel honored to bear witness to his rebirth, in Ella's name. 

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Grooming the Next Generation Hockey Star....

After Hurricane Irene hit it was time to play.  Daddy took the two youngest girls out for a little hockey session. Baby G in particular seems to really take to the action..


Sunday, August 7, 2011

Happy Birthday to me....

All is love!

This beautiful handmade gift given by to me by the love of my life is the most cherished thing I have ever received.  Todd created this Adirondack inspired beauty this Spring and presented it to me on my birthday.  He harvested the cedar himself and joined every piece of wood without any screws or nails... true woodworking joinery at it's most authentic.  Half-lap joints and hand created cedar "spikes" are just a few of the techniques he employed.

Such a beautiful, pains-taking, piece of art.... created by the love of my life.... I am forever grateful and humbled by his efforts.  What an extraordinary gift.  I love my life... I love my husband!

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Forever Sweethearts....

Happy Day to the "LOVE OF MY LIFE"!

You know when you have those moments when you realize out of the blue how absolutely blessed you are?  You remember all over again how amazing the person is who you once dedicated to spend the rest of your life with.  I seem to be having a lot of those moments lately.  My better half  is truly that... my better half.  I'm not nearly as amazing as he is... but for some reason he chose to spend the rest of his life with me.  I've never met another man who is more caring, patient, compassionate, loving, dedicated, or committed to his wife and family.  I feel like I've won the lottery... absolutely blessed that this person is dedicated to ME!  Not sure what I did to deserve this... but it's pretty great.... and our children... well, they've won the lottery too.  Xxxoo to the love of the life.... I love my life... I love my husband!

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Swimming with Alligators....

Baby Genevieve and Lovie kick off the unofficial start of summer by swimming with this very large & scary alligator.  The heat index hit 100 degrees and a little cool down is in order.