"Words on Women & Strength"

This is a beautiful reminder of the power behind women and cherished friendships. A dear friend sent to me months ago and I was waiting for the right time to post it. After another evening spent among friends tonight, I feel so blessed to have these types of bonds in my life. The past 24 hours have been so uplifting, so beautiful. I am grateful to friends that inspire, friends that come to me for advice, friends that listen, friends that make me laugh, and especially friends that genuinely care about me and my family. That is why this tribute touches my heart - enjoy . . .

You've.been.on.my.mind.

Five simple words said out of genuine love and concern, one friend to another. Sometimes that's all it takes to relieve ourselves of a burden, a troubled mind, a heavy heart. My sincerest "thank-you" to a dear friend, a kindred spirit who lightened my soul today . . . you've been on my mind . . . how easy, how meaningful to those who struggle for a small moment, who lose sight of themselves, who need a connection.

Thanks friend for helping me feel myself once again.

So simple . . .

Yesterday. Perfect. Sun. Blue sky. Slight breeze. Time with my little girls. Time reading together on the back patio. Time for a walk, scooter, swings, basketball. Time to listen and laugh. Resting together. Swimming with Dad. Late night movie with friends . . . snuggling on the couch with my sweethearts. Yes, it is the simple things. Happy, happy summer's day!

My 12-year old

It was Caroline's 12th birthday on May 25th and I'm just now getting around to blogging about what a special, sweet, polite, kind, sincere . . . I could go on forever describing this girl! We are truly blessed to have Caroline in our life and I am so pleased with her optimism, helpfulness, and especially her sensitivity. She is a genuine friend to all who know her, and a very patient older sister to Sophie and Liza. In the 6th graduation poll, she was voted "happiest" out of all the 6th graders and I couldn't agree more. Caroline brightens the room with her smile and keeps us smiling ourselves with her witty remarks and laughter.

To celebrate of our very own "Sweet Caroline," here is a short video of our girl (unfortunately, I don't have any pics of her when she was tiny scanned, so I just used some from the past four years) . . .

Summer

Just for a season

no schedules, no plans, nowhere to be

listen to the rain fall, smell the scent of fresh pine

late nights, night games, late-overs

time for each other, time to breathe

finding balance once again

seeking simplicity.