The value of virtue.

One thing for sure is through the trials in life, having peace that passes understanding is of primary importance to me. There are few other things that allow decisions to be made to move forward, with the confidence we have had........

With all my experiences in life and loss, peace has become even more important. I know it when I find it; when it is not present, it cannot be manufactured. While it may not matter to many, I know the value of this virtue.

Logan's MB Surf team played in Anaheim today, missing 4 of their players to SAT's. He donned the libero uniform and took up the position. His team headed to the semifinals on another 90 day in November; however, we wrapped it up by heading to Urgent Care:/

While digging a ball, he hit the court and ended up with a slight gash in his chin:/ When I saw him bleeding, I was summoned by the coach and we headed to the trainer. After bandaged up, he went back to play for the last few points.... the heart of an athlete always emerges.

I wasn't sure what to do regarding stitches or not, and if his dad was here he would've bandaged him up with butterfly bandages and first aid ointment and declared all is well. The old school way. The doctor decided differently and gave him 5 blue stitches for 5 days. Either I had peace through it all, or I am still just numb......

Thank the Lord for the gift that passes human understanding, and defies any odds stacked against us. It is possible to have internal peace, where there is none to be found in the external sense........

At a point in Jesus' ministry, he advised those who followed to determine whether or not a place or people, deserved their "peace." They may be welcomed initially, but perhaps no longer wanted. 
After making a determination, they were advised to put their peace on the place, or leave with it intact, not to be wasted.

If a person or place was not worthy of this blessing and well wishes, the blessing left with them. They'd shake the "dust" off and move on. No blessing to be left. No peace to be placed.

I came here expecting one thing, and have experienced something so totally opposite. 
"Vice Verses." Switchfoot

The Exodus.

Making a move in life always brings uncertainties along the way with so many things to consider in the choices we make. College, career, lifestyles, and loves all lead somewhere or nowhere....... Steps forward reveal what we leave behind...... and the value we place on a future.

My background is such that my husband kinda had the "final say" in decision making, even though we would typically talk things out. I had an opinion most often to share, but would defer to his judgment based on the doctrine we were taught.

Being in such a position is risky, because trusting my partner to make all the "right decisions" is an impossible feat for anyone. On the day he passed, I wish he'd listened to me.............. there has to be mutual respect in any relationship; without such, humanity falls.

On a daily basis, it is not unusual to be yelled at, leered over, glared at, and hassled in some way, by someone of self importance here in SoCal. Back east and elsewhere, it is an occasional occurrence. Making the decision to be kind is difficult because there is no "safe place" to land........

Logan and his new MB Surf team had a prosperous day at this first tournament at ASC today:) We also met up with dear friends and former Rockstar teammates, with hugs and smiles, as their bond remains special. Wish it could've been protected; however, in SoCal VB, the truth unfolds....

As time has accelerated in our lives, there are moves that need to be made in order for us to stay ahead. I will be training a new girl to take my position with Prudential before the end of October. I will then be solely focused on my personal business. and blog .......... and growing it.

"All steps lead forward." (Mick Seislove) 

Valuing innocence.

Over the course of many years, I have seen and heard many "dreams," some of which are held onto, even when the time of fulfillment has passed. Holding onto a purpose that has passed is like devaluing your destiny........

Tomorrow begins the Indoor VB Club season for Logan and his new team, MB Surf. Yes, there is no break; in SoCal the game continues year round, indoor and outdoor. I'm starting to see how this idea of constant competition between kids in Cali, and I do mean constant, can slowly wear away childhood innocence.......

Insanity is defined as "doing the same thing over and over, expecting a different outcome." The importance of meaningful connections with quality people cannot be overstated and far outweighs the satisfaction of any kind of competition, college, image, or status, in my humble opinion.

Austin is recovering from a nasty stomach bug he's had since Tuesday night and missed a few days of school as a result. He's a typical almost 20 year old, searching for a purpose and plan for his life. For now, he is researching......

There is no shortage of surprises living just outside of L.A. When I picked up a few items at the local Walmart Thursday, I suddenly became surrounded by a number of Japanese tourists, taking pictures and notes as I was flying through the store, LOL:)

Redefining the dreams. Innocence over insanity.

Facades, Finesse, and Feelings.

Funny the facade anyone can portray at any given time, through pics and purposeful words. I think for some, it comes natural; for others, there is a finesse. I've purposely never been good at it.......... and now, intentionally so. Let's be real.

I'll share a text with you that took place between one of my children and myself today............ and a window into the soul of this state:

"I feel numb and hardened here...... by the move and all the work I've handled, people I've met; it takes a conscious effort for me to feel.........." 
"You can't put feeling into most anyone or anything here without getting hurt so you just learn not to feel. The things and ones you really love bring it back......"

Tonight Logan signed the Letter of Commitment required by Southern Cal VB Association to play for the club, Manhattan Beach Surf or "MB Surf." With this move, come hard changes; his former team and parents made magic together. A few lifelong friends for Logan. We now see what lies ahead..........

September is a month of transition for me, as I move from my summer of finding and focusing on myself, to incorporating those freedoms into my everyday life. I even bought an exercise ball and band to use at home for my core:) Most of all, it's my mental game that's being strengthened........

As I pursue a writing career, more changes, disciplines and adjustments will be happening. I will keep you posted on the progress of my blog. The plans to expand the network is well underway. No matter the pressures, I am not giving up........digging my heels in yet again.

I know we now hug a bit harder, hold on a little longer, and love a lot larger now, and in our future, and as we find those we are meant to "love." 
Sharing a song with you tonight that speaks to my heart... now. Click the link and listen. Goodnight.