New Year Blessings

December 31, 2015, last day of the year.  I have spent much of the past few days thinking about the good and the bad of this past year.  We lost good friends and family members.  Rick and I both are working jobs we love.  We played our songs, wrote some new ones.

We haven't taken a vacation, but hope to remedy that this coming year.  Our family has expanded with the birth of Easton, our great, great nephew.

There are friends that we love dearly, and we have not spent nearly enough time with them. Same goes for family.

Our dogs are well, and so are we.  Stopping treatments was the best decision for my health I could make.  My Smartvest is amazing.

As always, time has moved way too fast.  I took a deep breath, and 2015 came to a close.
This weekend, vision boards will be completed.  Christmas decorations were taken down today.
I miss my tree.

I pray blessings for all of you this New Year, may we be kind, joyful and healthy.  May we treat others as we wish to be treated, may an abundance of peace fill our hearts and our world. May we all know happiness. May we all know we deserve love.
Happy New Year!

Questions and Answers

" There are years that ask questions and years that answers." -Zora Hurston


And then some years, there are questions and answers.   Hoping this last hump day of 2015 has been a good one.  Enjoy the rest of the year...and I hope it brings you the answers you seek or the questions you need to ask.

I Am Ready

December is almost gone.  The years keep spinning by so fast it makes me dizzy. If stomping my feet and yelling stop it would work, I would do it. That just seems to make it spin faster.

My class was full today, mostly new faces.  It is that time of year, when our population begins to expand.  Many promises are made during the holidays, the new year brings hope of change and better days.

Finally the weather feels like December, not April.  There were blue skies today, a crisp breeze and talk of freezing temps this weekend.  I say, bring it on!  My boots and sweaters thought I didn't love them anymore.

I am still dealing with the gunk, but am better. Today was one of those days when I felt great for about two hours, and then I began to fizzle out.  I think it is a test of endurance now.

Tomorrow is my last class of the year, Monday will bring my first classes of 2016.  I am ready.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Purpose

'Your job is not to judge. Your job is not to figure out if someone deserves something.  Your job is to lift the fallen, to restore the broken and to heal the hurting."  - unknown

I love this quote, I write it on my board at work monthly.  I share it on FB often.  I remind myself of it so frequently because I feel that it speaks to me personally.

As 2015 is ending, I am once again building my vision board.  Looking at my life, my needs as well as my wants, but mostly looking at what I feel is my purpose.

Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Christmas Musings

It has been a strange Christmas holiday, with moments of joy, fear, sadness and relief.  Being sick has played a part in the off kilter of the season, but the weather has played the largest.
Record breaking warmth, floods and tornadoes have kept us all on high alert...more storms, rains and flood warnings to come tonight and tomorrow.

We did our last family celebration tonight.  Will be glad to be back to the routine of work tomorrow, glad to see my students, glad to be back on the mat teaching.

Starting to gather our pictures, words, etc together for our vision boards.  I love thinking about what I want to accomplish, to pursue for the new year.  That will be our New Year's celebration this week, along with taking down the Christmas decorations.  I am always sad to pack away the lights and snow globes, to take the tree outside.  I will miss the old Santas smiling down at me from the mantle.

Sending you blessings of peace and joy this last week of 2015, think about the good, put the bad in perspective and remember to count your blessings.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Breathe

I realized this morning that every muscle in my neck and shoulders hurt, and I am thinking what is going on with me today.  I remembered how stressful our drive home through the storms and flooding  was last night, how tense Rick and I were during the drive and what a relief to make it home.
Then I knew why those muscles were so sore and painful, all that stress.

Stress is a proven health destroyer.  No wonder people love yoga so much...it really does help.
Last night as darkness loomed, the rain was pouring and the roads were no longer visible because of the rising waters, Rick kept looking at me, saying just breathe, it will be ok, just breathe.
He was my teacher, because until he told me to breathe, I didn't realize I was holding my breath.

Today has been restful and peaceful.  Our friend Fred came over, we grilled steaks and talked about what we would like to accomplish this coming year.  I hear a hot cup of tea calling my name, I am already in my pjs.

Wishing you all peace, rest and calm tonight, joy and laughter tomorrow.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Merry Christmas

In the midst of flooding and tornado warnings, Merry Christmas from Empire, Al.

My 2015 Christmas card.

Hoping that Mother Nature will calm down in the next few hours.  It is scary out there tonight.

Merry Christmas!

Christmas Cookies

Even though the lung gunk has hit me hard, the Christmas cookie baking must go on.  Jordan, Daisy and Breeze and Joy,  did a great job today.  The cookies were awesome.

Santa will be happy tonight.

Merry Christmas!

May We All Be Safe

This eve before Christmas Eve has been different.  I went to Urgent Care this morning, bronchial infection, sinus infection...thankful that it was not the flu or pneumonia, the doctor discussed both.

It is 72 degrees at 11:00 pm, we are under a tornado watch until 4:00 am. There have been deaths and destruction in our neighboring states this evening.  Nothing like wrapping Christmas gifts sick and watching weather updates.  It will be a long night...but saying prayers for those who lost loved ones and their homes.

I hope that you are all safe, warm in your beds, waiting to celebrate Christmas.  If you are in our neck of the woods, keep your weather radios by your bed, know your safe plan of action.

Wishes and prayers of peace, joy and love tonight...may we all be safe.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Love and Peace

My students were quiet and very much withdrawn today.  Many of them had gone through trauma counseling before yoga class...they were emotionally bruised.  Breathing, awareness, and gentle compassion was the order for class.  They had to be reminded, as we all do, that they/we are worthy of love, joy and peace.

In this season, this holiday of love and peace it is important that we remind ourselves...we are worthy of love, we are all worthy of peace and joy.  The rush of the season, the hectic schedules, the push to buy the perfect gift, to create the perfect holiday these make us forget  what this season is about.
It is about light shinning in the darkness, about love for all,  and peace.

Take a few moments and breathe.  Take a few breaths and send love to those around you.  Take a few minutes to hope and wish and pray for peace for everyone.  And if given the opportunity, hug someone.

Stormy Monday

Rain has been pouring since this morning.  A cold chilly wet day, but I must say the Christmas lights are so beautiful in the rain.

At my community class tonight, my students brought me gifts...I am so touched by their kindness.
It is such a wonderful group, all ages, men and women, many of them have come to my class for years.  We have seen each other through tough times, so many of them have had life changing illness and circumstances.

Have you written your letter to Santa? There's still time.

Wishing you all great joy this week, hoping that kindness will touch all your lives.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Christmas Cards

I have painted Christmas cards all day.  This is the last batch, my hands and my neck are kinda stiff and painful...as my husband Rick says, "fun ain't cheap."

I can't believe Christmas is this week.  I am awfully excited about the Christmas full moon.
Though, our weather guys say we won't see it because of all the storms headed our way.
I hope they are wrong.

Our local paper did a story about my cards today.  It has been rather exciting, hearing from friends who saw the story.  The writer, Dale Short did a great job.  It is a little embarrassing too, all this hoopla about my little hand made cards.

My cup of hot tea awaits, I need it desperately tonight.  I am tired, physically and mentally.
I will post my card later in the week.  Wishing you all a week of joy, a week of peace.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Here's the link to the newspaper story
y. http://www.mountaineagle.com/.../5989-empire-artist...

Birthdays

 Four December birthdays celebrated tonight, two nephews, two nieces.  A table full of soul food was consumed, ham, greens, mac and cheese, beans, sweet potatoes and turnips and corn bread. Desert was red velvet trifle..

Food and laughter...life is good.

Friday Night Nuggets

Finally, my energy has come back today. The past few days, something had just sucked it right out of me.  I try to notice what is taking place with me when those energy drops occur.  Sometimes it an over loaded schedule, sometimes not enough sleep or food or water or exercise.  Honestly, this week it has been all of the above.  But, it's the week before Christmas and the excitement is building.

Tomorrow we celebrate birthdays for those nieces and nephews born in December.  Just an old fashion southern supper...and birthday presents wrapped in birthday paper of course.  I love it when the house is full and laughter fills the room.

I know that this time of year can be depressing.  It is easy, to let the hype of the season create an unrealistic picture of holidays.  I have found that you have to pick what is important to you and let that be your celebration.  Often family traditions are not what we need to create a holiday of peace and joy.  Compromise is a skill that is highly useful in these times.  Pick a couple of things that are important to those around you and decide on a couple that are important to you as well.  Don't overload, over extend, over book, or over spend.

My family and Rick's have learned that getting together means just as much the first or last of December as it does on the 25.  Food and fellowship are what we seek, gifts are the not focus, at least not for the adults.

My neighbor and her grandson brought me Christmas cookies and a new tea cup today. The cookies are the most exquisite I have ever tasted.  She loved the card I painted for she and her husband.
We had a grand visit.

I hope your weekend gives you joy.  I hope that regardless how hectic things become, you take a few moments to breathe, eat a Christmas cookie and laugh with a child.

Hugs For Stress Relief

The changing of the weather from day to day is taking its toll on my body.  Yesterday it was 75 tomorrow it will be 50 and rumor has it that by Christmas almost 80.  All of these fronts coming through are tough on everyone.  If you suffer from chronic pain, any change in barometric pressure will tap you on the shoulder.

Plants are blooming that usually don't bloom until late January or February.  But at least people who live out west are getting rain and snow.  Hopefully the water levels will rise and their drought conditions will disappear.

More cards to paint, cookies to bake and Jordan spends the day tomorrow.  Who knows what sort of fun we will get into.  Don't forget, no matter how stressful the next few days might be...breathe, have some fun, hug someone, maybe hug several someones.  Is it true that hugs keep stress at bay?

Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Clone Me

"I promise that I shall never give up, and that I'll die yelling and laughing."  Jack Kerouac

I love this quote, and I would like to add that I would probably also be saying, breathe, just breathe.  My students tell me that should be on my tombstone...breathe, just breathe.

Not all class days are serious, sometimes we spend the whole time laughing. I said something a few days ago that at some point in my life I should retire, one of the students said, "not until they figure out how to clone you."  Oh my, I can't imagine more than one of me.

I have painted Christmas cards all day, the first batch gets mailed out  tomorrow.  I need an adjustment and a massage.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Tuesday Thoughts

Painting Christmas cards, about this time each year I tell myself I am crazy, and swear at some point never again.  How quickly I forget.  I do love the fact that there are friends who collect my cards, who have them framed and use them as part of their Christmas decor.

I came home tonight and my Christmas decorations had been rearranged.  I smiled, Jordan and Anthony, our two great-nephews had been over this afternoon and decided they did not like my arrangements.  They love the snow globes and the Santas.

My class was full this afternoon.  Some of the students had been in trauma counseling earlier today, they  needed to let go of the stress and fear. We actually did a class for chronic pain, often trauma and grief counseling is so intense, the students experience physical pain.

Tomorrow I am home, no classes.  I will paint and then complete my Christmas shopping.
By the way, have you all seen the moon this week, extraordinary!
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Monday Musings

Storms blew through last night.  A large limb hit the roof of Rick's truck, but the local body guy can fix it.  It has been in the 70's for a week, but a front is moving through the next few days, in the 20's at night this weekend.  Finally, Christmas weather.

Classes were fun today and tonight.  Letting go of stress is so easy when you know how.  The new moon is shinning extremely bright tonight, but so are the stars.  What is it about winter nights, the stars always seem so much brighter, the moon so much bigger.

Christmas carols are playing on the stereo.  I love Christmas music, for our last song in class tonight I played Tori Amos singing What Child Is This.  So peaceful and beautiful.

My cup of hot tea awaits, my energy is dropping.  Time to say...
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Big Tree

Finally, tree is decorated.  Let the card painting begin.

This is a tree we had two years ago.  Out in the yard it looked much smaller.  It's a big tree.  I am a tired decorator.  Jordan is concerned that it might not live when we replant it.  I assured him, we have done this many times, not only do they live, they thrive.

The whole house smells of pine.

Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Memories

We had dinner with my friend Kaye, her husband Jamie and her dad and all his friends tonight.
Kaye's mom passed away this year and they are now having to create some new traditions.
It is tough, those first holidays after a parent passes.  You miss the old traditions but you know, they won't ever be the same.  You hold on to the memories and forge ahead on a path that you just didn't think you would ever have to take.

Our friend Brian was there tonight also.  His wife Mary passed away this year too.  It was so sad to not see Kaye's mom Nila or our friend Mary.

So this holiday season is like so many, there is the joy and there can be sadness.  Thank goodness for our memories and let us remember to make the most of this season.

Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Two Weeks

It was 70 degrees today.  Hard to think that Christmas is two weeks away and the air conditioner kicked on.  Welcome to the south.

I decorated the house today.  I don't do a lot of Christmas decor but I have Santas that sit on the mantle and snowglobes and wreaths.  Tomorrow Jordan and Samantha will come over and we will decorate the tree...and possibly bake some cookies.

I am late this year, but Christmas cards will be painted in the next few days and mailed as well.
Still a bit more shopping and then the wrapping.  I have been known to wrap on Christmas eve.
It's just the way I grew up.  My mom shopped in December, the tree was decorated a week or two before Christmas, cards were sent out a couple of weeks before Christmas.  Nothing about Christmas took place at our house until December.  I love the frenzy that creates.

Since we wait about decorating the tree, I don't take it down until New Years and even then I hate to see it go.  I love sitting in the dark at night with the tree lights on listening to Christmas music.
I will bake an Irish fruitcake, make some biscotti and our traditional Christmas cookies.  If it cools down there will be hot spiced cider.  Some times I make candy.

Remember, to enjoy the holidays.  Don't let the frenzy and hustle and bustle get to you.  Smile at strangers and take time to smell the fir trees and maybe grab a kiss under the mistletoe.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Tears

There are all kinds of tears.  Tears of joy, of grief, of relief, of sadness, of anger, of release, of pain.
Yoga can trigger tears, even in those of us who are very slow to cry.

When yoga triggers the tears it can come as quite a surprise to the one who is crying.  After all you think, who cries in yoga class.  But it happens and more often than you think.  Women cry and so do men.

Yoga brings about release...of emotions, pain, memories.  It does so when you least expect it.
Words are not necessary, the movements, the breath, the stillness can all be catalysts that open the flood gates of tears.

Tears in yoga class bring sweet release.  If you have ever known the feeling of weight being lifted from your shoulders, that is the sensation that tears in yoga bring.  Afterwards there is an incredible feeling of lightness, peace and no stress.

There were tears in class today.  There was a release of stress and fear.  There was peace and joy.
I wish you all could have been there.

Goodnight, Sweet dreams

The Waiting List

My plans were to get many things accomplished today.  My day planner was full, the list was long.
Life has a way of making fun of plans sometimes.  A couple of things were done, but those that I thought were the biggies, they are still on the list waiting to be marked off.

What happened?  I just ran out of steam, some time around noon my energy dissipated and I was left like a deflated balloon.  I knew I had been pushing, but I thought just one more day.   It seems my body decided today was rest day.  At least these days I am smart enough to listen, in the past I would have ignored the fatigue, and in a couple more days would have been very very sick.

So I have read, watched a little tv, cooked a great dinner and spent time on the couch.  Walked the dogs and looked at the bare trees and cloudy skies.  I feel much better tonight.
A few years ago I would called this a wasted day, but never again.  The body and the spirit have to rest and recharge, today was my day to do that.

That list is still in the day planner, it will be carried over to tomorrow and maybe even the next day or the next.  It's ok, it will all get done eventually.
Goodnight Sweet dreams

Christmas Lights

My students came in the room laughing today.  It is wonderful when they come in, happy and smiling.
Class was full of good positive energy.

My drive home is so beautiful and peaceful now.  It is dark, the stars are out and Christmas lights shine and twinkle through the woods.  There is magic in Christmas lights, especially those on country roads.  They might not be as creative or as sophisticated as some but they have heart.

Rick's mom and her neighborhood use to do Christmas lights big time.  None of them had much money, but those lights had heart.  We placed holly on his mom and dad's graves Sunday.  I thought of how much she loved Christmas.  I hope she is some place celebrating Christmas every day now.

Goodnight Sweet dreams

Christmas Cookies

Christmas cookies are a tradition that many of us cherish.  I have made Christmas cookies as long as Rick and I have been married. My first Christmas cookies were made for a 4H project when I was about 10 years old.  They were rather sad sugar cookies but I won a ribbon and that was enough to spur me on.

After Rick and I married, I learned to make biscotti ( several different varieties) including cranberry orange, chocolate spice, and almond.  But the cookies that our nieces and nephews love, the ones they ask for, the ones they and now their children help me make every Christmas is a Swedish spice cookie.  They have ginger, cloves and cinnamon in them and the whole house smells like Christmas when we bake.

I never know how many kids will be in my kitchen baking cookies.  Last year, Jordan invited his friend Ella to come bake cookies.  Then on Christmas Eve, Jordan, Anthony, Breeze, Daisy and Joy decided to bake.  I have learned a secret.  The kids don’t really enjoy mixing the dough as much as they love to decorate.

Now, I buy dozens of jars of glittering colored sugars, sprinkles, and all sorts of cookie decorations.  I spread them across the kitchen table in little bowls, cut out dozens of cookies and place them on cookie sheets and let the bedlam begin.  Usually you can’t see the cookies for the piles of sugar and sprinkles , but that is ok, the kids love them.  We turn Christmas music up loud, and dance around the table.

Four years ago, I got a call the week before Christmas that I was to see a  new doctor  before the  new year. Many tests had been run and I had no clue what I was facing or if I would have another Christmas.  The kids sensed that something was amiss that year.  It seemed as though they knew, those cookies and our time that day had to be extra special. Never have we danced so wild, laughed so hard and covered cookies with so much sugar as we did that Christmas Eve.  There was such a frenzy, the Christmas tree leaned on its side!

Since that Christmas, I have never fretted about the floor covered in sugar, or a Christmas tree falling.  That Christmas, those cookies, that phone call, gave me my transformation for the holidays.  I truly understood that all the gifts, all the worry, all the stress was not important.  What was important, at least for me, was time with family, friends and making cookies with as many generations as I could.

If I could share something with you this Christmas, it would be this.  There is no perfect holiday, until you think there might not be another.  Then, they all become perfect, the flaws, the goofs, the spills, the cookies with an inch of sugar on top.  Enjoy the moments, live within your means, spend time with those you truly want to spend time with and laugh as much you can. 

This is my column for the December issue of The Leaf.

Siblings Lunch

Today was our siblings lunch...and spouses are always welcome.

The years are flying by, my siblings and I are still young at heart, but our bodies have dealt with the years.

It was so much fun.  So much laughter.  Missing our oldest brother who passed just a couple of months after our mom.  Our brother Glen and his wife didn't make it today, he had surgery this week.

Today would have been our mom's
98th birthday.  She would have loved having us all together, eating and laughing.
Happy Birthday Momma.

Not So Perfect

Christmas shopping, an excursion for Jordan's Charlie Brown tree, it has been a busy fun day.
Jordan spotted his tree early into our outing, but his mom and Rick wanted to go deeper into the woods and look at more trees.

Jordan was adamant, the tree he wanted, the tree that to him personified the spirit of a Charlie Brown
tree was the first one he saw.  And it truly had the CB spirit, tall and leggy, one sided, a tree no one would love but Charlie Brown.  I was proud of Jordan for sticking to his guns.

I see its lights tonight shinning through the woods.  I love our tradition and I hope that if Jordan has a child in years to come, they will do a Charlie Brown tree also.  The tree sits on their front porch like a beacon. The decorations look a little worn and tattered, but they have that same CB spirit as the tree.

I am proud of Jordan and Samantha for seeing worth and beauty in the not so perfect.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Busy Weekend

A nice ordinary day.  Just what I needed, what Rick needed.  Household chores, grocery shopping, a long nap...all good things.

Tomorrow, Christmas shopping, getting a Christmas tree and then tomorrow afternoon we hike through the woods with Jordan for his Charlie Brown tree.  We started the Charlie Brown tree tradition with Samantha, Jordan's mom.  Hiking through the woods, looking for the saddest little pine we could find, then bringing it home, stringing lights on it, home made ornaments...it becomes beautiful.
Of course, after all that, we make cookies.

Sunday, my brothers and sisters and I get together for our Christmas lunch.  We found that once our parents had passed we needed new traditions, the old ones just didn't make much sense any more.
So now, the first Sunday in December we and our spouses go to my sister Pat's house for lunch.
No gifts, just comfort food ( beef stew, cornbread and slaw) and lots of laughter.

A jam packed week-end, but hey it's December...time to see friends and family, eat tons of food
and relive old memories and make some new ones.

Goodnight, Sweet dreams

An Honor

I had the honor tonight to speak to our local American Legion group about yoga and PTSD.
I looked across the audience at the men and women who have served this country.  I saw faces weathered and worn, young and hopeful and sad and broken.

I spoke about how yoga can help with PTSD not only for those who have been in combat but also those who might suffer with PTSD from other causes.  As I was leaving a young woman approached me and told me how much yoga had helped her  PTSD.  She was no longer having nightmares.

My students at work often tell me how much yoga helps them sleep, how it eases the night terrors, helps with depression and anger. In  my classes today, I had three students who had been sent to me from their trauma group.  As they walked in, it was obvious they did not want to be there, but when class ended all three told me they would see me Monday.

I am fortunate.  A few years ago my employer sent me for a training program called Yoga Warriors.
A yoga program for active military and vets with PTSD.  It was an opportunity of a life time and it has served me well.  I love teaching the classes.

I am very tired tonight. Today was another one of those hello/goodbye days and then my speaking tonight.  An emotional day.  Hot tea awaits me.
Goodnight Sweet dreams

Last Color

Walking the dogs in the rain this morning, I spied the last of our fall color.  Something about the rain and the light made the colors glow.  The earth seemed so serene in the morning chill.

Wishing you all serenity and peace tonight.

December 1

December 1...a thunderstorm tonight, weather lore and my grandmother Mamie....thunder in December snow on that same day in January...we will see come January 1

December 1...24 days til Christmas, Holy Smokes! cards to paint, decorations, gifts, tree, lights

December 1...still waiting for winter

December 1...I love Christmas carols

December 1...the last month of the year 2015

December 1...driving home tonight the Christmas lights glistened in the pouring rain

December 1...family time

December 1....Christmas cookies

December 1....lots of December birthdays, today was Rick's mom's, my mom's will be Sunday, Rick's sister's is coming up, and several nieces and nephews.

December 1...so many Christmas movies to watch

December 1...I want snow

December 1...hot chocolate, spiced cider

December 1...today I received my 10th anniversary pin at work

December 1...I miss my mom and dad

Goodbye November

The last day of November, Rick and I both saw doctors today, hopefully it will be a awhile before we see them again.

My appointment was one of those long ones involving me donating a portion of blood for tests.

By the time we left UAB I was starving, my yogurt breakfast was long gone.  We stopped by Nikki's for fish and vegetables and as soon as we got home, a short nap helped to revive me.

I taught my evening class, that doctor's appointment today got in the way of day classes.  It's ok, I will make it up to them this week.

A warm muggy night.  It is one of those falls, when our weather is warm and balmy for a few days then freezing for a couple. Sweaters one day, shorts the next.

Christmas lights are up and glowing, I love their reflections in the rain.  I think a tree will be found for the Watson house this weekend.   I am sorry to see my pumpkins and fall decorations say goodbye.

Goodnight Sweet dreams 

Sunday's Reflections

November is almost gone, 2015 is almost over....two facts that I just can't wrap my brain around.
Where did the time go?

It has been a very good Thanksgiving week.  Time with family, lots of food, beautiful weather.
Memories were made.

The rains have moved in today, though it is still warm, much too warm for the end of November.
With all this rain, maybe snow will visit us in the next few weeks, those temps just have to drop.

December's calendar is starting to fill up.  That is ok, it should always be a busy month, we just have to remember to breathe and pace ourselves.  It is all about enjoying the moment.

The last of the Thanksgiving turkey made wonderful soup tonight, along with homemade apple pie.
Back to veggies and smoothies tomorrow.  Even with the holiday, I still continued my 10,000 steps.

Time to recharge, get ready for classes tomorrow.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

What We Think

a quote for this Saturday night...

"All that we are is the result of what we have thought.  The mind is everything. What we think we become. "  - Buddha

Joy of Kids

The house was full of food and family yesterday.  The backyard was abuzz with kids this afternoon.

My brother Ricky, and Jordan, Breezze, Daizy and Joy came over and it was full tilt boogie. 

Those kids ran for almost two hours, just for the joy of movement, fresh air and sunshine.  Just for the joy of being kids.

Rick, Ricky and I just sat and laughed...and wished we had half the energy.  Ha! Maybe in our next lives.

Too Short

The light of the moon shinning down on all creatures is driving our dogs crazy tonight.  They keep barking at any and everything.  Just after dark, a small very young deer walked gingerly up to our birdbath for a sip of water.  She stared at me with large dark eyes, so beautiful, so trusting.

Our fridge is full of leftovers, no one left our home hungry today.  I think about those who are hungry, who are cold, who are without home or country. I think about those in our military far from home.  I think about my students at work who could not go home.

Tonight, I wish I could feed everyone, I wish I could give everyone a soft warm bed, I wish all those who are away from their homes could be home.  I am blessed and everyone I know is blessed and yes we all go through hard times but we have roofs over our heads and food in our bellies.

I think about our friends who lost loved ones this week, about our friends who are sick....but yet, there is still so much to be grateful for. The moon shines so brightly tonight and as I look at its light, I pray for peace, for humanity, for kindness.  I pray we remember, to do unto others as we would have them do unto us.  Life is too short for hate...life is too short for fear...life is too short.

Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Happy Thanksgiving

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving.  Since my parents have both passed, holidays are bittersweet.  Filled with good memories yet sadness because of those who aren't here to celebrate anymore.

My brother Ricky and his family are coming for lunch, so is my sister Pat and her daughter Jayna.
My friend Fred, who works with me will be here too.  Life goes on, new traditions are created and precious memories are held in our hearts.

I have so much to be grateful for, family, friends, work and better health than I have had in years.
Sending you all blessings for this Thanksgiving, may your day be filled with good food, loving friends and family and gratitude.  And may the beautiful full moon peaking through my window tonight shine his light on all of you.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Real Compassion

There are times in my classroom when there is so much love and kindness flowing from the students that I leave there with the sensation of floating.  Today was one of those days.  As class ended, I sat there and thought about humanity, if we could only spread what we all felt for that hour the world would change.

My quote on the board today was from Pema Chodron, " Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity."  Every person in class today felt that shared humanity.
For all the darkness that seems to prevail around us, there is light.  I believe there is more light than darkness.  We have to remember and recognize our shared humanity.

My Thanksgiving wish is early this year, but my wish is that we all recognize our shared humanity.  That we all feel real compassion for each other and that the light of humanity shines brighter than ever before.

Goodnight, Sweet dreams

All You Leave With

I am sharing this from FaceBook tonight, my friend Connie Jean posted it today.
It resonated with me,   especially after attending two memorial services this weekend.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Laugh Out Loud

While we were at our gig Thursday night, a friend we have known for some 40 years made her final transformation.   The last few years we hadn't seen each other  as much as we did in the early years.
Life took us down different paths.  We went to pay our last respects to her today.

As Rick and I stood waiting to speak to her husband and children, her sister came over and spoke to us.
There was a large crowd, actually the church was full of people who had come to celebrate Debbie's life.  Her sister Donna looked at me and said "she would have loved this, all these people here."
I agreed.  We talked about Debbie's wicked sense of humor. After spending time with her, if you had not laughed, it was your own fault.  She really could have been a stand-up comedienne.

I have often said through the years that it seems so many people have lost the ability to laugh.
I think a sense of humor, the ability to smile and laugh is vital for kindness and survival.
Our small world lost someone who valued laughter, who laughed out loud and encouraged those around her to laugh.  Laughter is the best medicine for physical ills and spiritual woes, especially the ability to laugh at ones self.

I  encourage students, friends, family and those who read this blog to laugh out loud daily.
Tomorrow, in memory and honor of our friend Debbie...laugh out loud.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Energy Spurt

Friends and family in Chicago and Michigan are getting snow...we are getting freezing temps tonight.
All the plants are snug and happy in the house tonight, time will reveal what creatures were brought in with them.  Through the years we have brought in an assortment of lizards, chipmunks, spiders, etc.
always interesting.

I also went through some of our bookshelves today.  3 boxes of books for family and charity.
Where did this energy spurt come from?  Now, if it would just stay long enough for me to do some painting...walls and cards. Of course I need to stay focused and clear all the bookshelves first.

Wishing you all a peaceful Sunday.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Trees and Moons

The half moon has been so lovely the past couple of nights.  I am hoping that for the full moon this week we have clear skies.  I am calling this a gratitude moon, after all reaching it fullness by Thanksgiving, what else could you call it?

We have our first freeze warning issued for the weekend, time to move plants into the house.

The two big citrus trees were brought in this afternoon.  It took me an hour of pruning but they look great tonight.  Tomorrow, the mango and avocado trees will be moved in.  We have so many big plants now, it gets a little congested when we bring them all in and usually by spring, I am a little claustrophobic.

Rather worn from the gig and the road, there is a cup of peppermint tea calling me softly.

Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Music

Tonight was an awesome gig. Nothing like an audience that gets what you are doing.  What fun.
I love seeing people smile when we play or listening to our words...we are not a band, but there were even people dancing.

Music is a healer. It reminds us of better times and of sad times.  It brings joy and reconnects us to our memories.  It brings out the human in all of us.  I am so grateful for music.

One of the gentlemen in the audience tonight said, "can you imagine how horrible the world would be without music, who would want to live here?"  I agree, music and art keep us sane, keep us human.
I am so thankful for my talents, however small they may be.

Goodnight Sweet dreams

A Golden Gift

As I started my second class today, we were half way through beginning breath work, I looked out my windows and saw the most beautiful golden light.  It had rained all day, monsoonal rains, pouring sheets of water at times.  The sky had been gray since yesterday.

I asked the class to open their eyes.  I told them to look out the windows and see the most wonderful gift the universe had given us.  The whole world was bathed in shimmering golden light.  Never have I seen light that looked like spun gold, but this light did. It took my breath away.  If light can give hope, this light did.

That golden light set the tone for the entire class.  A peace settled over the class, students moved through asanas effortlessly and gracefully.  Those who came into class, troubled, became subdued and calm.  I often talk about healing breath and light.  We experienced healing light in that class this evening.

It was another day of saying goodbyes and hellos.  The gift of golden light seemed to put it all in perspective.  For everyone today was a new beginning, wrapped in gold.  A gift to remember, a gift to treasure.

Tuesday Thoughts

Storms rolling in later tonight, November and December are actually our second tornado season each year.  The winds have been howling tonight.  Much too warm for mid-November.

Rick is still not feeling well.  Almost everyone I know is ill or has someone in their family who is ill.
It's as though we need to do an anti-bug/virus/flu dance.  I have washed my hands so many times I think the skin is coming off.

Energy was low in class today.  Sometimes the sadness just sweeps the building.  I read that there were to be meteor showers tonight, too bad the clouds rolled in.  I think we all could use some wishes on a shooting star.

I think bedtime will be very early at the Watson house tonight.  I also need a cup of hot tea.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Ego/Soul

I am sharing this from a site, Music for Deep Meditation.  I loved this.
Hope it resonates with you as much as it did with me.

Sundays

I was born on a Sunday.  Is that why Sunday is my favorite day of the week?  Sundays for me have always been special.  Early childhood memories of Sundays are good...reading the Sunday comics with my dad, my mom's Sunday dinners, family Sunday afternoon rides...I love Sundays.

For some, Sunday is the beginning of the week, for others the end.  For me, Sundays are like New Year's Eve every week.  The opportunity to look back, to reflect, and to look forward.  My Sundays keep me balanced and centered.  They give me a day of rest, to spend time with family and friends.

Sundays are my day to recharge,  I catch up on e-mails and calls on Wednesdays...Sundays are for walks, enjoying nature, reading, working my day planner for the coming week. Remembering the past week, letting go of what I can and holding on to lessons I have learned.

Today, has been a Sunday of cooking foods we love, spending time outdoors, rehearsing for our Thursday night gig, and I got a haircut today.  I thought about my students that I said goodbye to this week and sent them good thoughts.  Actually, I sent good thoughts out to the whole world, including all of you who read this blog.

I hope your Sunday gave you what you needed, maybe it was a nap, a visit or some time for meditation. I hope this Sunday night gives you rest, peace and sweet dreams.

Blessed

It has been a beautiful autumn day.  It has been a wonderfully normal day, filled with routine.
I washed yoga mats, cleaned eye pillows, washed yoga blankets, played with Jordan, ran with the dogs, and looked up at the clear blue sky.  Rick is slowly feeling better.

I found out that my insurance company is going to pay for my Smartvest, the manufacturer is willing to accept what the insurance pays.  I owe nothing for something that has been life changing for me.

I am a lucky woman.  Life is good. I am grateful. I am blessed.

Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Grateful

My harvest flag, a symbol of my gratitude for the abundance that fills my life.

Wishing all of you peace tonight, reminding you that there is always something to be grateful for.

Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Rare Blue Moon

Every once in a blue moon I get a group of students that are so incredible they take my breath.
For the past few months, I have had one of those groups.  They are kind, brilliant, clever, funny, smart, the best of the best.  They began to leave the program a couple of weeks ago and soon they will all be gone...back out into the world to hopefully live the lives they were born to live.

I have cried  many tears in the past weeks, saying goodbye to them, saying prayers for them, hoping with all my heart that they go home and live the life they long for.  I pray that their choices are the right ones for them and they have the courage to walk the path that leads to a peaceful life.

Rick is feeling better tonight and I am very tired.  I think warm flannel sheets and hot tea will do me good.
Goodnight Sweet dreams

Thank You

To all who have served, and to those who are still serving, Thank You!  Happy Veteran's Day!

My dad and mom, just before he left for war.  He was an Air Force medic, who served in Germany and France.  I never knew until many years after he died, that he was a decorated hero.  He refused to talk about the war.  I just know that many times through the years, he seemed so sad.

Sadly, I know now that he must have suffered miserably with PTSD all those years.  Now it  is ironic that I spend my work days doing everything I can to help my students who have PTSD  cope with their daily lives.

Looking at that picture of my dad and mom, they look so happy, so full of hope.  I am lucky to have had such good loving parents.  They taught me to always be of service to my friends, family, community and mankind.  RIP mom and dad.

Thanks to all of you Veterans for your sacrifices.

Bugs and Creatures

Rick is under the weather, I might be approaching the same front.  There are some nasty bugs going around.  I have fingers crossed, taking loads of vitamins, washing my hands, howling at the stars...you know, whatever I can do not to catch the stuff.

Thank goodness I am off tomorrow.  Maybe some rest and fresh air will boost whatever is left of my immune system.

The deer are prowling through the neighborhood again tonight.  They drive all the dogs crazy.
As I left work tonight, at the edge of the parking lot was a huge raccoon eating something.
He watched me as I got into the car, I felt as though he was daring me to take his food.  After our escapades with raccoons and our chickens I don't trust the little bandits at all.

It is time to let this day go, get a good night's sleep and start all over tomorrow.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

A Cup of Hot Tea

Chilly and rainy today.  The dogs did not want to run this morning.  Taz walked to the barn and then immediately started back to the house. She hates getting wet.

When we came home tonight, two deer were at our driveway.  They come almost every night and eat the birdseed in the feeders.  Creatures are funny.  They really do have habits that can be quite endearing. The deer often look in our windows as they eat the birdseed.

It has been another emotional day in class.  More hellos and goodbyes, it is the nature of what I do.
I will never get use to that part of my job.

My cup of hot tea awaits.  I am tired tonight,but the tea is just what I need. Tea is magical, it can energize, calm and soothe.  It can be as comforting as an old friend. When I am sick, it makes me feel better.  Nothing like a cup of hot tea.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

It All Works Out

I just wrote my Christmas column for The Leaf today.  I will post it here on my blog after it is published in the paper.  It was one of those times writing that the words flowed quickly and effortlessly.  I am still surprised that I am published in a newspaper.

I laugh often about how life changes your plans.  Never once, when I began this blog did I ever imagine my writing being published.  I thought I would write this blog for a few months, maybe a year...my,my how time flies.

It has been a good Sunday,peaceful, but productive day, with a few curves thrown in.  We were suppose to have a meeting of our songwriting friends at our house this evening, but no go.  Some were sick, others had other commitments, you know, life happens, plans change.  Instead of the meeting, I wrote my column and baked pumpkin bread.  It all works out.

Wishing you blessings of peace this week.  Find some joy in all that you do.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

No Tomatoes

We drove south this morning for our gig.  It rained all night and has rained all day. It began warm and muggy, now it is damp and chilly.

The gig was a good one.  I love playing for art councils and  festivals.  As I told my friend Louis when we got home this evening, "anytime they don't throw tomatoes at you, and they ask you to come back, it's a good gig."  No tomatoes, and they asked us to play for future events.  :)

It felt good to play today.  I am hoping this leads to more bookings for the next few months.
Rick is doing what he usually does every Saturday night  in autumn, watching Alabama football. I go by the tv room every once in awhile to make sure he's still breathing.  :)  He does love his football.

I am exhausted.  I don't eat before gigs. I run on Adrenalin and after it is over, I am empty.
I had plans on cleaning the fridge tonight, but I am passing on that.  Taz and I will sit by fire, read and drink a cup of tea.

Here's to a peaceful Sunday and no tomatoes.

Friday Ramblings

I hear the rain tonight.  For some reason, it reminds me of the impermanence of life.  The rain falls, the earth drinks it up and the cycle continues. I am missing the dead tonight.  My parents, my brother, and friends and family who have moved on to the next place.  It is one of those times when I just wish I could talk with them, get a hug...you know.

We have a gig tomorrow.  The first in some time.  I am a little nervous.  I want to share our songs, tell our stories.  I want to do my best.  We have practiced, we are ready.

Something about aging and the coming holidays, I want them, I need them. I want to remind those that are younger, don't stress, make your own traditions, don't get sucked into the guilt of making everyone happy.
Make yourself happy.  Spend time with the ones you want to see,  let go of the rest.  I wish someone had told me this so many years ago. I spent a lifetime trying to make everyone happy.

I know, I am rambling tonight. I think it is nerves about the gig tomorrow.  Wishing you all a weekend of joy, of many hugs.  See beauty no matter where you go.
Goodnight, sweet dreams

Regret/Gratitude

 I read this quote today and found it so very poignant, but true...


"Dead people receive more flowers than the living ones because regret is stronger than gratitude."   - Anne Frank

Wednesdays/Best Days

According to my Jawbone Up reports, Wednesdays are my best days for sleep and exercise, I get the most steps in and sleep my full eight hours on hump days.  Not sure why that happens, I am off on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, but Wednesdays seem to be my magic days.

This tracking device has been interesting, and enlightening.  It serves as a daily reminder to get off my duff and move, but it also has shown me how my sleep patterns vary.  I thought that on my most active days I would get the most sleep, but that is not always true.  (unless it is on a Wednesday)

I have always been active, as the years have gone by and health issues arose, there were times I got lazy.  When I stopped IVIG treatments, I knew I had to be diligent about health matters.  There could be no lax moments.  This Jawbone has served as a gentle reminder that much of my health is in my hands.

We had sunshine and blue skies today for the first time in almost a week.  There are still tomatoes on the vines, so this was a great day for them.  I will pick the last of the eggplants tomorrow.  Cooler weather on its way.

I hope your hump day has been a good one, Rick has the guitars tuned and ready for practice.
We have a gig this weekend.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Strength and Kindness

There are days when classes seem to transcend all things earthly.  Today was one of those days.
There was the most exquisite feeling of peace that floated through out the room.  When class was over no one wanted to leave.  I wish there was some way to contain that feeling and pass it out whenever needed.

Who knows the mystery of how we reach those levels like we did today.  There was love and kindness permeating every square inch of space in that small room.  I believe each person took something special with them as they left the room.

I know that when that much goodness is felt, it spills over, it has to.  No matter the darkness that each one has seen or felt, the light of goodness and kindness shines bright.  Mindfulness is felt, because of the awareness of being in the now, in the present and nowhere else.

Strength and kindness, it might seem like an oxymoron , but there is strength in our kindness toward ourselves and others.  Some days we have to remind ourselves to show kindness to ourselves and that often takes more strength than showing kindness to strangers.

Tomorrow take the time, find the strength to show not only kindness to strangers but to yourself as well.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Color

The rains continue, the colors just become more vibrant.  Fall has made an impressive appearance.

I hope your first week of November is full of color.
Time change or maybe just the day, but I have ran out of steam.

Goodnight, Sweet dreams

November 1

November 1... rain all day

November 1...only two months left in 2015

November 1...I love Thanksgiving

November 1...leaves are falling in multicolored splendor

November 1...I do not shop on Thanksgiving

November 1....warm boots, cozy sweaters, it's that time

November 1...hot cider

November 1...where did those last ten months go?

November 1...it is all about gratitude and great food

November 1...I still watch Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

November 1...strange times we live in, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas decorations in Walmart, all at the same time.  Don't you find this bizarre?

November 1...Autumn is still my favorite season

Boo-teeful Wedding

It was a Boo-teeful wedding! Kaye, the bride was beautiful, I was her devil of a bridesmaid.

My friend Karen.  She and Kaye and I have been friends since first grade.  Really sweet, fun ceremony.

Friday Night

Almost every day this week has taken an unexpected turn.  Wednesday, as Rick and I were having lunch, Jordan's mom called and asked if we could pick him up at school, he was sick.
Turns out he has pneumonia and has spent the past few days with us, instead of going to school.

Our days have been spent making chicken soup and Popsicles.  I have watched Scooby Doo and
Jake the Pirate way too many times. But, he has been a sick little boy and it breaks my heart to see him not well.

Finally today, he had enough energy to go outside for a short time.  I think the sunshine and fresh air did him good.  I am hoping the meds kick in and tomorrow he will be himself again.

A busy Friday, washing yoga mats and caring for a sick seven year old.  Tomorrow is Kaye and Jamie's wedding, a Halloween wedding will be fun.

I hope you all get treats tomorrow night and no tricks.
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

A Beautiful Day

More beautiful autumn colors.  A beautiful day of classes.
New faces, others leaving, meditation, hugs, and a heart full of love...and a few tears.

I am grateful, I am blessed, I am lucky.

I am living a dream and doing what I love.

Friendships

I spent the morning with a good friend.  I had not seen her in awhile, but that was ok.  Our friendship is one of those that it doesn't matter how long it has been since we spent time with each other, we pick up
right where we left off the last time we were together.

We had a great time.  We laughed, shed a few tears and hugs.  I left thinking about how strange life is, 
we get busy, life happens, yet our friendship continues.  Happily I have several friendships like that, we go months, maybe years, yet when we see each other, it is as though we saw each other yesterday.

Those friends know, that even though we might not see each often, if there is a need, we are there for each other.  There are histories and connections, love and respect, that is why those friendships continue through time.

I did nothing that was penciled in on my day planner today, but that is ok.  I will play catch up tomorrow.

Goodnight Sweet dreams

Lessons From Mother Nature

These oak leaves, drenched in color, glistening with rain, took my breath away today.  I looked at them and thought about how we are so fearful of change.

If the change can be as beautiful as these leaves, bring it on.  Mother Nature's lessons are the best.

Rainy Walk

Calliou and I walked the road to the barn in the rain this morning.  Everything smelled so fresh, and the color has appeared almost overnight.

Today would have been my dad's 97th birthday. He passed away 25 years ago.  I miss him very much tonight.  He would have loved walking the dogs in the rain this morning.

Last Week of October

A very busy weekend.  Sometimes it just happens.  It has been fun, but exhausting.
Life happens in unpredictable ways, and you really do have to go with the flow.

Good news, at least for us, rain is moving in tonight.  We have been under a fire ban for over a week.  There have been forest fires burning for days.  When we walk the fallen leaves are so dry and crunchy and under them, there is dust.  The rain is what is left of hurricane Patricia, we will be grateful for the left overs.

This is the last week of October.  Another busy week, Halloween, my friends Kaye and Jamie are getting married, and Daylight Savings leaves for awhile.  All good things worth celebrating.

Wishing you a glorious fall week, get ready for the goblins and witches and the full moon.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams 

Crazy Fun

We live in a small cottage.  Today, my brother Ricky, his wife and their kids, grandkids and friends of kids and grandkids spent the evening at our house for a welcome fall, birthday, festival, celebration.  I think at last count there were 27 people here.

We had chili, white chili, taco soup, baked potatoes, noodles, cornbread, home made cookies, smores,
cake, and more.  We had football on tv, games in the backyard, playdough and water colors on the porch.

By the time everyone went home, I was on automatic.  It was intense fun, sorta like a rehearsal   for Thanksgiving or Christmas.  Suddenly the house went from loud noisy laughter to eerie silence when they all left.   

I have a month to rest and regroup before Thanksgiving.  I think I can make it.  This much fun takes 
planning, energy and a little bit of craziness.  

Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Magical Cookies

For local schools it was a half day, Jordan's mom decided he could just spend the day with his favorite aunt and uncle.

We made Halloween cookies.  As we gathered the ingredients, Jordan made the comment that we could just go to the store and buy cookie dough.  I agreed, but then I told him, these would be so much better.

As we sifted the flour, cloves, cinnamon and ginger together, he told me that the spices smelled "funny."
I told him that cooking was magic, alchemy to be sure.  When the right ingredients were mixed in the right proportions magic really did take place.

As he ate the first warm cookie from the oven, he exclaimed it is magic, these are great!
I am exhausted, but I have had a "magical" day.

Continuing Thoughts

continuing thoughts on last night's Moss blog...maybe those early days by the stream, contemplating the moss on the rocks was the beginning of my journey toward meditation.  Stranger things have happened.

I taught meditation classes today.  For a few, the stillness was bearable, for some, unbearable.  We have become so driven, movement and results driven, ingrained into our very souls, sometimes it seems we  have lost all ability to sit still and breathe.

We feel guilty about our stillness, about sitting still. We think it is a waste of time or foolish.
Meditation feeds our souls and spirits, no wonder so many search and try to fill the emptiness with drugs and alcohol.  We run away from the very thing we need and crave.

Meditation takes practice and cultivation and it might not always give you the results you expect. But, there is no bad meditation.  Someone ask today what I thought the difference was between  prayer and meditation, my humble thoughts were these. " Usually in prayer we are asking for something or being grateful, in meditation we are allowing the peace that lives in our hearts to find our brains."

Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Moss

My fascination with moss began as a child.  There was a tiny stream in our back yard and I spent a great deal of time playing there.  There were moss covered stones and rocks every where and moss on the ground and tree trunks.

I loved the feel of the moss, soft, bouncy.  The smell was earthy and fresh and the rich verdant colors were beautiful.

I feel at home around moss covered rocks and earth. There is a connection I cannot explain, only that I feel it is a part of me.  My shade garden has struggled the past few weeks. Warm October temps and no rain do not make a happy place for shade gardens full of moss.

I watered every thing today. I could almost hear a sigh of relief as the droplets fell on the rich earth.
It has been a good off day. Peaceful and restful, as it should be.   May the rest of your week bring smiles and hugs.

Hickory Trees

One of my favorite trees, the hickory.  The nuts are good if you can break them open.  The wood is great for tasty smoked flavor in foods.  The leaves turn to gold in the fall.

Today was another perfect fall day.  Blue skies and tall golden hickories, life is good.

Finally over the nasty bug I had this past weekend.
Goodnight Sweet dreams

Discuss

a quote for this Monday night

"Great minds discuss ideas
Average minds discuss events
Small minds discuss people."   - Eleanor Roosevelt

Nasty Bug

Shortly after we went to bed last night, a nasty stomach virus decided to move into my tummy.
What can I say, it was a most unpleasant night.  I lost today.  No sleep, and with the upheaval that took place in my tummy, today was a couch day.  Water, dry toast and chicken soup gave me sustenance, but my energy has abandoned me.

Plans change quickly, we had planned on making Sunday drive north towards Tennessee to see the fall colors.  Maybe next Sunday.

Wishing you all a healthy week.  I pray the bug that got me will never bite anyone else.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Recycle

Nothing lasts forever, but with appliances they seem to and then one morning, they don't work anymore.  That is not exactly what happened with our clothes dryer.  About a week ago it began to sing, well actually it was a loud screech, like giant fingernails on the world's largest blackboard.

We couldn't complain, we had bought it refurbished about six or seven years ago for less than $200.
It gets used almost daily.  I know, I had a clothesline for years, but every tornado season it got blown away.  Creature comforts are my weakness, especially washing machines and clothes dryers.

So today we went back to the appliance store where they sell nothing but refurbished appliances and bought another clothes dryer.  They will pick up the old one when they bring the"new" one and probably use the old one for parts to refurbish more.  I think it is a great way to recycle.

Wishing you a peaceful Sunday.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Good Times

Rick and I met our nephew Haven and his wife Alesha, and their son Anthony for dinner tonight.

It is one of our favorite little restaurants, Black Rock Grill in Jasper.  I had blackened catfish stuffed with shrimp, yummy!

Good food, family, it all adds up to a good time.

Here's hoping your weekend is filled with good good food and good times.

I Am Still Learning

" I am still learning."  - Michelangelo

I saw that quote this morning, it has stuck with me all day.  It was one of those goodbye days at work.
There were tears and hugs, it does not get easier.  No matter how much my students say they learn from me, I learn so much more from them.

My students keep me humble and grateful.  They make me laugh and cry.  They teach me how frail we humans are. They teach me how incredible we humans are. In them, I see the brightest, the smartest, the kindest and the strongest.  I see my friends and family in them.  I see anguish. I see hope. I see the best and the worst.  I see human beings.

No  matter how many students I teach, how many years I teach, all I can say.  "I am still learning."

Our Door

I love decorating the entry to our house.  The stepping stone that is flanked by the stone planters is almost a hundred years old.  It was cut by hand and given as a wedding gift ( from the groom to the bride) of the couple who originally owned the farm where we live.

Our front door has been purple for many years and though I have thought about changing the color I just can't.  That purple door says this is Rick and Jilda's house, welcome.

We met old friends for dinner tonight. We ate outdoors at a wonderful little restaurant in Birmingham. The food, the company, it was as good as it gets.  This has been a great hump day.

Here's to a Thursday that brings good news and joy to all.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

A Lover of Rain

I am a lover of rain.  Even cold grey rainy days are good for me. So mother nature must be playing with me just a wee bit.  We are in our dry season here in Alabama. October is usually our driest month.  The skies are blue as can be, the leaves are starting to turn color and here I am wishing for a rainy day.

There is something about a chilly rainy fall day.  It is the perfect time to read, have a cup of tea and reflect on all that is good.  It is ok.  Usually the rains come in November, the leaves are gone in one fell swoop or downpour and everyone complains but me.  My flip flops and sandals are already packed back in the closet, summer clothes have joined them.  Sweaters and boots sit ready to be worn.

I have friends who are already complaining about the chilly mornings, even Sam and Jordan complain.  But for me, those chilly mornings give me energy and to be honest, I can breathe so much easier.

It is a good thing that man cannot control the weather, none of us would ever be happy would we?

Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Good Changes

A new moon, changing season, you can feel a difference in the energy.  All three classes today were more upbeat, cheerful, actually hopeful.  I think our cooler temperatures and the fall colors are very uplifting.

Even though we fear change and most of us dislike change, we forget how good change can be.
The seasons change, our tastes in food awakens, our sense of smell becomes more heightened, and the colors inspire us to get outside more.  Fall brings an awareness to our senses that is so intense.
Just think about crisp apples, the smell of burning leaves, the colors around us.

Where ever you are tonight, take some time to notice your senses, touch, smell, taste, hearing.
Notice color, textures,eat something earthy like root vegetables, listen to the wind blow.
Let the changing of the season teach you that change can be good, it can be inspiring.

Notice the changes around you tomorrow.

Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Good Things

Class is finished, passed my final.  Yoga mats and blankets are clean. Closet and guest room is clean.
I did the work.

I hope your weekend was exactly what you needed.  Mine needed to be productive and it was.
This week starts rehearsals for upcoming November gigs.  Three new songs to complete and Rick and a couple of buds wrote a new one today.  It is a guy song, but a very good one...no daisy dukes or cold beer in sight, thank goodness.

A brand new week, and lots of good things on the horizon.  Wishing you and yours all that you need and some of what you want.

Goodnight, Sweet dreams

You Have to Do the Work

There are days, especially on the weekend that I would much prefer to do something fun and adventuresome than what I actually do.  I have spent yesterday and today doing necessary chores.
Laundry, shopping, cleaning, washing yoga mats, class work.  That is how life goes. Many times you have to do the not so fun stuff, before you can do the fun stuff.  You have to do the work.

It is like playing music.  We love our gigs, but there is much effort that goes into them that no one ever sees.  The practice, deciding on the set, making sure the sound equipment is working.  The load in, and the load out.  There is a great deal of work for an hour or so on stage.  But, you have to do the work.

When people find out that I work at an addiction center, they often ask me what is the magic bullet, how do you become sober and stay sober and clean.  It is just like everything else in life.  You have to do the work.  There is not a magic formula. You have to do the work.

None of us become successful at anything, until we do the work.  It might seem there are overnight successes and maybe there is an concessional one.  Each successful person that I have ever met, talks about the hard work and effort that it took for them to become successful.  You have to do the work.

A few days ago one of my students said she would love to play guitar.  I told her she could, to find a teacher and practice.  She laughed, and said she had tried that, but it hurt her fingers and learning was just too hard.  I looked at her and laughed and told her, if you want to play, you have to do the work.

So whatever it is you are striving for in your life, relationships, work, what ever.  Don't forget, you have to do the work.

Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Busy Friday

Friday night, the weather guys say rain and cooler temps on the way.  That would be nice.
Several projects for this weekend, wash yoga mats for work, wash yoga blankets for work, complete my on line class and take final, clean out my closet, clean pantry.  Yoga mats are clean, pantry is clean.  Tomorrow will be another busy day.

I will be glad to take my final.  It has been a good class, but a tough one.  The best thing about it, I have been able to use the information I have learned.  That is not always the case with a college class.

Have a wonderful fall weekend.  Spend some time outdoors, enjoy the beauty that only fall can bring.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Thursday Thoughts

Meditation classes today, hellos and goodbyes...some days are just that way.
Another beautiful sunny warm day, but I am ready for fall.  My online class will be over tomorrow, I will take my test and move on.  I have learned a great deal and am already sharing it with my students.

A good day, but a tiring one.  It is time for a cup of hot lavender tea and bed.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

Fun

Sometimes I have to laugh at myself. There are days when nothing goes as planned like today.  It seems that the local schools chose this day to have a teacher's meeting.  That meant Jordan would come to our house at lunch.  His mom had called last night and ask if that would be ok. Of course it would be ok, it would be wonderful.

Then this morning, my fretful self thought oh no, you have a column to write today, you still have four hours of videos to watch for your on line class...and on and on.  I took a deep breath, spent ten minutes with my smart vest and took about a forty minute walk.  All was well with the world.  Rick left to pick up Jordan, and I cooked lunch.

Jordan arrived in his usual state of joy.  Suddenly all those things that had concerned me earlier took a back seat.  We played all afternoon.  I forgot about class and the column and just had fun.

You know what, he went home around 5:30, we ate dinner and I wrote my column.  I will watch my videos in the morning before I go to work.  Silly me, to spend all that energy fretting.  I needed the fun today. Our afternoon with Jordan was a gift.  I am still laughing at myself as I type this post.

We get in the way when life hands us precious gifts. I forget that living like water, going with the flow will get me where I need to be, when I need to be there.  I hope you all have the opportunity to have some fun this week.  I highly recommend it.  Seven year old kids are great teachers, they are masters at having fun.

Let Go

I taught a class today on letting go.  I have begun three different posts tonight, and each of them have disappeared, lost forever in techno land.  The lessons that I taught today are laughing at me tonight, or at least I think they are.  Why else would each post just disappear?  I am letting go of thoughts and words tonight on this computer.

Each time I started a new post, I thought wow this is better than the other one...and then it would disappear. Tonight I remembered to let go and breathe.  So forget those flowery words that came before. Now it is just honest fatigue pecking on this keyboard. There is nothing left, I have let it all go.

Tomorrow is Wednesday, no classes to be taught, but a column to be written and the afternoon spent with Jordan.  It should be an interesting day, well at least fun.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

The Best

A good day for yoga classes. Good energy and good spirits, laughter and hugs, I am a lucky woman.
Three classes today and it was the same for each.

Tonight I am grateful for my students, for those of you who read my blog.  You lift me up when I am down.  Thanks for your prayers and good thoughts.  Those three years of treatments were the worst, but you all were the best.

Sending you blessings of joy, peace and always good health.
Goodnight  Sweet dreams

Bittersweet Sundays

Sunday nights are sometimes bittersweet for me.  For the last two years of my mom's life, I would go down to her house on Sunday evening and spend the night with her.  I spent days and other nights, but Sunday nights became our routine.  We would talk about what the coming week would bring, make grocery lists, watch tv, play with the cat.  Sometimes we would look at old photographs and talk about
the past.  We didn't spend much time on the future, but we spent a great deal in the present and the past.

After she died, it took several years to let go of that feeling every Sunday afternoon that I needed to get my clothes together and go down to her house.  Old habits, especially ones that ingrained on your emotions are hard to break.

This afternoon that sensation hit me.  I had not felt it in a long time, but that sense of urgency was almost overwhelming.  Wanting to see my mom weighed in my heart, and for an hour or so I felt totally out of sorts, knowing that she was not at her house.

October always intensifies my connection with my parents and my missing them.  Their anniversary was this month, my dad's birthday is this month, my mom died the first week of November, so October was the last month she was in my life.

I am missing her tonight, more than I have in quite sometime.  She has been gone ten years, come this November.  It is an eternity and a moment.  I just wish I could pick up the phone and call her.
Once she told me that she didn't want to die because she knew what it was like when her mother died and she didn't want  me to know to that pain of missing your mother. Sadly it is a pain most of us will have to experience at some point in our lives.

Wishing you all a peaceful Sunday night, and a week that brings joy.
Goodnight Sweet dreams.

Ignorance

a quote for this rainy chilly Saturday night....


"The highest form of ignorance is when you reject something you don't know anything about. "  - Wayne Dyer

Popcorn Joy

Jordan came to our house after school today.  He was so full of joy, it could not be contained.  His class had a popcorn party this afternoon.  It seems the kindergarten, first grade and second grades had done a fundraiser of sorts.  They had brought sales receipts from local  and area stores in each day for the past few weeks.  The class with the most dollar tally in receipts won the party, his class won.
Not only did they have popcorn, but they watched 101 Dalmatians.

That is the amazing thing about kids.  Their joy is pure and simple.  It doesn't take big stuff to make a child happy.  Adults seem to look for things to be sad about, kids find the joy.  I'm not sure exactly when we lose that ability to find joy in the simple, but I think if we could remember those times and reclaim that ability our world would be so different.

It's Friday night, this weekend find some joy, pop some popcorn, watch a few cartoons.
Goodnight, Sweet dreams

October 1

October 1... today would have been my parent's 72 year wedding anniversary.

October 1...my dad's and Rick's dad's birthdays are this month

October 1...time for all things fall

October 1...leaves are turning,wind blows out of the north

October 1...crisp apples, fresh walnuts and pecans, pumpkins

October 1...the perfect time for stews and home-made bread

October 1...sweaters, boots, my most favorite clothing

October 1...Halloween, a wonderful holiday, you dress up any way you wish and eat tons of candy

October 1...a month for changes in the weather, clothing and some have done their Christmas shopping ( not me)

October 1...the smell of burning leaves, chilly mornings, sunny afternoons

October 1...bonfires, hayrides and s'mores

October 1...my friends Kaye and Jamie are getting married on the 31

October 1...candy corn mixed with salted peanuts, can we say yummy?

October 1...football and baseball at the same time

October 1...I love this month, this season...call me happy