"While living in L.A., where there is sunshine everyday, I began to realize I missed the seasonal changes that are noticeable on the East Coast. For most days, the climate did not change while residing in the west; the days were beautiful and warm. I never did tire of the sun....... but I longed for the seasons. Every day was the same.
Read moreHappy from Heartache
"I have been asked by inquisitive minds, who have wondered how I have endured such hardship, losses, and trials over the course of my life. From the issues of abandonment to accusations, losses of loves and ever evolving relationships, much is required from those who have been given much. It is a Biblical principle one cannot get away from.
Read moreUshering in renewal.
"We are home for a few days after our snowy travels and some of the best boys volleyball Logan's played since Southern CA. So thankful to take part in such a great caliber of competition. It has brought out the best........"
Read moreDestinies and desires.
"I wonder about second, third, or fourth chances at life or love, or whatever the case may be. You know I'm a big believer in starting over and making the most of every opportunity given. To think about the desires and destinies connecting with others can afford is pretty astounding to me."
Read moreThe Simple Things.
This weekend contained some big things after I marked what would've been my 27th married year. I feel the connectivity of time as moments are marked in my memory over the years. Where there are few climate changes, time stands still and is stagnant to me.
In spite of this cold, Logan and I are finding adventure in the snow, sometimes "off roading" on the road:) There are weather related hassles everywhere, just for different reasons. Having no water or precipitation is a big bummer, but there's no right or wrong. The sun does not make one superior............. and neither does the snow.
We trekked to Hershey in the cold on Friday and carried a few boxes and totes into my sister's new home nearby, in Saturday's blowing snow! They are very efficient packers and seem to have this down to a science. The bulk of it comes this weekend, but on the way back to my house we found another adventure:)
With Aidan in the backseat and Logan driving, we saw two lost dogs running the street in the snow, with no collars or tags. We couldn't help but try to round them up, so as Logan ran 1/4 mile after them, I followed in the truck. We were finally able to get them to come close. It was a picture!
These two pit bull/boxer dog mixes were the sweetest things and tried to come sit in the front seat with me. After they later jumped into the back, we rounded up the rest of the kids for the remainder of our snowy adventure. It was perfect! I didn't know what I would do with these dogs, but we knew we could not abandon them when they needed help.............
We could have been afraid, fearing their breed and the rumors we've heard but carefully and cautiously we stepped in to help. And so it is with life..... You can't plan such a thing........ or work the time into your schedule........ you just have to fill the need when the time arises........
Just as we mapped out our plan, I turned right onto a road that put me on a path with who I perceived to be the owner. I followed her closely and she was soon reunited with her pet friends. She gave Logan a big hug for helping, as she mentioned to us that most people are afraid to get close because of their reputation........ We are not "most" people.
There is nothing like a fresh coating of snow to revive our senses and make us feel alive and alert. Perhaps it can even awaken our sense of adventure and I think a lot needs waking up around here! Having said that, my daughter has officially announced she's returning to the east and to everything she loves dearly smile emoticon
I think we've tried to appreciate the times, situations, and seasons each have afforded us in life.
Simple moments. Snow falling. Sun shining. Special people. East and West. The countdown is on.
Another suddenly has come.
At any given moment in time a suddenly event can change a life. Winning the lottery, losing a life, or living with difficulties each alter how we carry on. Character is tested during the challenges and character is what needs to be witnessed.......
For some, a suddenly is a rare occurrence, if you're able to keep life under control. From the disarray around the world and the distrust in our own country, I would say we are living in a new reality much like my own; one you're never ready for but must adapt too.
Perhaps we need to get with the times and realize the seasons............
If I believe in my dreams, then loss should not be allowed to take them from me. The suddenly that sent me into a state of grief cannot keep me in a place of death. I want to allow my dreams to grow bigger.... and better than they were before. How to get to the goals is where character and challenges collide.
Some might say if I never went to SoCal, then I would not have quite this quest to reset and readjust in life. It was a cultural experience we were called too, and God only knows the greater reasons as to why. I know you will be hearing some of those reasons in the coming days.........
When the kids and I returned to LA after the holidays at home, it was as if something shifted. After landing on 12/28, Logan and I absolutely knew it was our time to exit two days later. Another suddenly had come upon us...
It was that fast.
Without time for any goodbyes for myself, we boarded a plane and were back in Philly a day and a half later. The season in life had shifted so quickly and I have learned to follow the flow, if at all possible. Most people are not able to do that, nor would they want to,.but I want to be blessed.....
The suddenlies have come for my 3 California kids and Jordan has also announced he will be leaving San Francisco in the coming weeks. Another 2 year period passed. His coming and going is blessed and we look forward to the beginnings of more great things as he follows his adventure forward.......
Sometimes we are too cautious and concerned about making moves that need to happen, or taking chances for fear something will happen.
Truth is, we only live once on the earth so we might as well make the most of it..... in a meaningful way.
Nite.
Highs and Lows.
SoCal experienced a bit of refreshing rains overnight which has ended a week of cooler temps and overcast skies. No matter where I am in life, I have learned there are times that seem "heavy," and the climate seems to speak to those physical highs and lows.
As we see the snowfall pics posted, it's so crazy how we connect to the change in seasons because there is a refreshing that comes. I see it so clearly. Logan is longing to see snow..... and it's a good thing he and I will be back for the Thanksgiving holiday! He needs his close friends and "real life........"
I've found to get past any type of homesickness requires we be in a new place for minimum of a year. That is sufficient time for an easily adaptable and flexible family to find real friends, feel some joy, and strengthen our resolve........... and perfectly position us.
My daughter has officially been given the job as a beach coach for MS girls, and will begin working with the Pepperdine coach. This man also trains and coaches AVP players Kerri Walsh and April Ross. Crazy stuff. "Your beginnings will seem humble........"
Logan's stitches are out, after 5 days with 5 blue stitches. Email contacts continue with high level schools which brings much needed energy to our resources. Our kitty Schmoopie slept in a box all day and Olive had a big day out with Austin that left her wanting more:) Meowing at the door.....
An "exodus" of sorts has begun since Fall, which I spoke of a few months ago; it's happening in various sectors and societies. I see so many being positioned and repositioned in this season. If change comes, embrace it; don't escape it. The time is now.
Go for it.