Rest and Recover

We have been spending the last 5 days trying to rest and recover from some sickness that has taken over the house.  I had thought since the warm outdoor weather was upon us that sickness went on vacation as well and would be staying away - not so much.  We are doing our best to take care of ourselves and slow down and do what is needed (mostly rest).  It does give me some time to reflect on how precious time is and how much we might 'waste 'of it. 

This summer I have the intention of slowing down, sharpening my perspective of what is life giving, affirming and joyous and trying to let the rest...well..go.  I was having this thought the other day (while lying bed trying to rest), about how to address any areas of my life that were causing me stress, how to change my perspective on things, and how would my life feel differently if these areas were addressed or resolved.  It is an interesting thought exercise to do...sometimes the stress is not so conscious.

I am grateful for my health, and the health of my children and am hoping for a speedy recovery.

Father's Day

There's something like a line of gold thread running through a man's words when he talks to his daughter, and gradually over the years it gets to be long enough for you to pick up in your hands and weave into a cloth that feels like love itself. ~John Gregory Brown

It's Father's Day...Yeah!  While the day may have a commercial tone to it, I see it as an opportunity to pause, be thankful, and celebrate the beauty of men who try with endless intent to be the most loving parent they can be.  Parenting is not easy (I know you know that already!), especially if you have the intention to do it well, with grace, patience (lots of patience), love that is unconditional, and a sense of joy. 

I look with pleasure and gratitude at my husband who seems to do this everyday.  It is clear where his heart lies, and he lives his life with these priorities in mind.  I appreciate his sense of perspective, and his relaxed attitude (sometimes I think it is too relaxed for momma - but I often need to slow down, so it works for us).  I also see how the girls love him and want to be in his presence (this bodes well for the teenage years!).  We often talk about life and the reality that you are only irreplaceable in the lives of your children and those who love you.  The rest of the world (work, career, some friendships) will go on without you, and sometimes faster than you might think, however.....you child only ever has one father or mother, to them you are the world.

The images you often see on the blog were taken by my husband who is exploring photography and his visual eye.  Clearly the darling are some of his favourite subjects.  So here is to all the father's out there, keep connected and enjoy the day to pause and celebrate.

Life's a Beach

Exploring the water

Toes in the Sand

It's more friendly to travel with a friend

Today we spent a lovely day at the Beach.  The weather was heavenly, warm, sunny, with just the right amount of breeze.  The faces were friendly, the kiddies full of delight, the food warm and yummy.  The girls loved building sandcastles (complete with a moat), splashing in the water (the perfect temperature), and collecting rocks as mementos of the day.

There is something so soothing and mindful about placing your feet in the sand and staring out into the blue water.  Something that says stop!  you don't need to do anything, just enjoy and be.  There is something about the stillness that is rejuvenating and calm.  It is also easy within this environment to ignore and let go of all that might be weighing on you.  The water felt so inviting, so soothing.  I really needed that.

We celebrated a family members 1st birthday - what joy!  Good friends and great times.  Life really can be a beach!  

Special Guest Blogger - Darlings!!!

Today I have two special guest bloggers...the little spirits for which I am most grateful and for which bring me much joy (and at times challenge!), my two darling daughters. 

Here is what the littlest one typed and wanted to share today...

hjgitiyuy (It says I love you Grandpa). 
 tgiyhiyolfiyioptgikhoijuhuiyitgokto0rojifruroiqu2qtwhyurvfghhh  (I want you to come a play tomorrow Grandpa)

Here is what the oldest one typed and wanted to share today...

i love you grandpa  i have a  sister

 i love you mommy '

Ahh the darlings, the eptimoe of beauty and love.  I hope your day is filled with sharing, expressions of love and joyous experiences.

Beauty in all its forms

Beauty after the storm

Nature's Beauty

Artistic Beauty

I have been thinking about beauty lately.  A word I enjoy and love, and creates a sense of calm and hope for me.  I will sometimes say this word to myself if I am having a hard time and it can help to ground me and remind me of the moment and the fleeting nature of negative thoughts.  I also like the word grace, with sets a different experience in my heart, and yet creates a sense of calm nonetheless. 

 I have been enjoying watching and noticing the beauty that is around me lately.  Nature's beauty - in the form of sprouting greenery and blooming flowers.  We have also been experiencing several loud and unpredictable rainstorms here and I have been enjoying the calm after the storm and the renewing of things after rain has swept through. 

I have also been enjoying and yearning to create more artistic beauty and self-expression.  The girls and I have been transforming our writing and craft space to meet our ever changing needs.  We have also been painting outside (not necessarily on canvas - but bricks, rocks and chairs!).  The need to let it all out and release is there.

I have also been enjoying the beauty of Art made by others and have recently discovered the British singer Adele (okay I know I have maybe been slow to discover her!).  The authenticity in her voice, the genuineness in who she is, her music stirs feelings and a sense of connectedness which is rare.  I love her voice and how it mesmerizes and evokes.  Check her out if you have not already - it is a treat.

Here is to a day of gratitude for all things beautiful.  Enjoy.