BE THE BALL

After a week long bout that I truly thought the pollen had won, the victory is so deliciously sweet. I was chained to my sofas, chairs, beds and floors. Often times at moments crawling to the kitchen to display superpowers as I put together the necessary nutrients to keep my Daughter healthy. I declare victory as I am now standing outside, breathing in so deeply with arms wide open my eyes cannot stay open as my head tilts back and a smile curls up from deep within that transcendes my being to another realm. As if someone tapped me, I am thrust back jolting me as a soldier who just took the formation to that of a salute. The truck that passes me I wave as if I am on my street and yet; I realize just how accustomed I had become to seeing such destruction and construction on what used to be hallowed grounds of our beloved Golf Course. You look around and there is anything but beauty. The grass is brown and dead, trees are being cut down, mounds of dirt all over. Saddness overtakes me. For a moment I only long for what I used to behold. Losing sight of what all of this will become.

 The Club has decided to update our course and bring a fresh more modern design. Although I haven't paid attention to their plans of what is to come, I am enticed from within to be surprised and anticipate new memories being made.  But all my eyes survey is what is lost and gone. I look over to where one of my favorite trees used to reside right outside my back gate. My Daughter and I since when she was a toddler would sit under it and enjoy a picnic and booktime. Instantly as a chuckle erupts tears fill my eyes as if a movie screen replays that momentous day that I was driving my Daughter back to our yard after enjoying one of our picnic dates. My Daughter and I were as if on a ride at an amusement park when instantly our cart came to a complete stop. I was stuck! Giggling how the men I called over to help working nearby could not speak any English and somehow we communicated. I shake my head as I start my morning walk that I have missed and longed for this past week. As I enjoy my new found freedom I unchained my Heart and Soul to run freely, liken to my dog who jumps and runs and sniffs from here to there as if on a quest of the vast unknown. 

As I now sit upon my back porch savoring my coffee my mind is liken to the speaker of the house as it unveils the findings of what is deep within my being. As if my Heart and Soul were now leashed and called Home after running freely. I ponder over my thoughts and senses as I entertain them as the most admired guests to join me. The relevence of golf to life is spoken so commonly it is almost dismissed. As my Daughter is about to finish her first golf year on her JV High School Team this imagry is more potent. I am mulling over about caddies and their role in the game. Moreover, their role to the player. In golf, a caddie (or caddy) is the person who carries a player's bag and clubs, and gives insightful advice and moral support. A good caddie is aware of the challenges and obstacles of the golf course being played, along with the best strategy in playing it.Whilst carrying the bag is part of the caddy’s more traditional role, their actual job description is a whole lot more complicated than that. They are a confidante, a playing partner, a right-hand-man and an advisor to the professional golfer, and the close ties between golfer and caddy are testament to the difference they can make to a game. In short, they can make the difference between winning and losing a tournament, and in a competitive sport, that means everything!

Part of the role is menial – carrying the bag, cleaning the ball, raking the bunkers, replacing divots and holding the flag are all basic caddy duties, but the real skill in caddying lies in helping their golfer to determine the distance to the pin, in advising them on club use and informing them how their game is holding up, as well as how they think it could be improved. A lot to do then! Often times we are the caddy to our own Dreams and other times who is the caddy for you when you are the player on the course of your own Dreams? Just let that resignate and marinate within your being. How often would you have been fired as a caddy? I know about days 4-7 of my sickness, I was weepy, tired and frail. I had a couple incidents that had me overshoot or entirely miss the ball. I felt like I will never see any of my Dreams; much less ever feel better! I complained I was tired of carrying bags, especially anothers. I took no pleasure in the menial aspects and my whole persona almost caused me to loose my tournament of my Dreams of my own in my life. 

A dear inspirational friend shared a book on facebook. My Daughter was sitting beside me with her head in my lap on her phone when her ears perked up when I played the portion my friend shared. She said, "Mom! Get that! Let's listen to it! Send it to me!!" I should not be surprised for she is my child but she was as a cortisone shot to my weary body. Alas we lay in bed at night and are listening together. It is called, "Girl, wash your face." What is more inspiring is the story behind this book. I follow both the Author and her Husband on Instagram. Two days ago she posted a picture of a bottle of Dom Perignon with a piece of tape across the top where she had written New York Times Best. She had that bottle saved for 10 years. She wrote an awe inspiring post you must check out at @msrachelhollis. Her Husband @mrdavehollis too wrote the most beautiful words of calling out her biggest dreams by believing they will happen and the impacts on their Family. He said it took her twenty+ years and he said "today and for the rest of her life, she gets to say that she's achieved her big dream." I am thankful for those I choose to be my caddy in this most precious game of life. Moreover, I am humbled and inspired to be the caddy as well. May I be the best caddy amongst the most menial of tasks. Last week, my Daughter was nervous before the match. I being her "caddy" I said as she was coming off the driving range, you have got this, I see a spark in you. Channel that force within you not what is trying to intimidate you. She said,"thanks Mom. I needed that." She shot her first birdie this day and I can now attest as I was standing on the green as her awe inspiring shot was played out to perfection; it was one of my most momentous times to be a "team" with someone. For I have been doing the menial tasks along this journey for her and with her as well making that moment so much richer. 

From the wise words of a phenomenal and truest Lady, the Late Barbara Bush. "The winner of the Hoop race will be the first to realize her(his) dream, not society's dream, her(his) own personal dream." This is the Wonderment of Life. xo

TAKE A SEAT

Dusting off my pants legs as I rise to meet my lunch date who I see smiling as she approaches me. She is in from out of town and insisted that although our time was brief, we agreed the opportunity was still there to be worthy of remembering as if we had an abundance of time. The place I chose for us to meet is an olden day store that has been turned into a Restaurant. Something about this place fascinates and bewitches my being as it delights my very Soul. It always has as if laced within a mesmerizing whisper as the walls tell me secrets of what I cannot see. I nod as in acceptance as my mind takes flight, entranced with delight. I have chosen this spot for momentous times as my Birthday, and my last meal before my second child was born. It is as if I am transcended into times of old and this quaint little storefront that is around a hundred years old has come to life. I am distracted by the mumblings of the voices that I hear   resounding of their stories as if I too were standing in the Moore Brothers General Store. Alas as if Jesse King himself were writting up my tab as we talked. Happy talk like being there for my Birthday and the somber, heavier moments laden down as mentioned my last meal before delivering my second child, who I knew was terminal; uncertain of what was to come. I wonder if Jesse as reported never missed a day of work in his sixty years was because his very heart and soul was what showed up for work. I was telling my out of town friend the legend is that this place is haunted. Although they report there are no bump in the nights and stories to tell I believe that Jesse brought that place to life. The aged old saying as if these walls could talk is poetry in the present. My imagination floods with wonder of now of  how people are still drawn to this enchanted delicacy. They are continuing to breathe life and add more chapters to this undeniable story of life. I find it rather ironic that another word for memorable is haunting. This is Monday motivation graciously taking me by the hand and ushering me in to breathe in from the marrow of my bones. 

As we ate from one anothers plates, giggling as we embraced this moment in time.  We knew that we were being gifted with more than something from the Chef. We were no longer occupying space, we were hyptmotized and delirious with the mere Wonderment of Life. On my way home I took my time to enjoy the beauty that was bestowed before me. I stopped and found a bench beneath the trees so beautiful as if the most skilled artist had painted beauty too rich for words to describe. The moss that was draped were as if a skilled designer had thoughtfully placed it. As if a veil had suddenly been lifted and the drapes were drawn for me, I understood the beauty of the benches such as that of Notting Hill. My mind escorted my senses to the bookstore in London we visited a couple of years ago where they made the movie. The beloved line where Julia Roberts read the bench to Hugh Grant, "For June  who loved this Garden from Joseph who always sat beside her." As if a chemist in a lab upon discovering a marvel my heart prodded where would my very own bench reside and what would my bench proclaim? Last week I was watching my Daughter's golf match. One of the holes had the most picturesque swing hanging from a tree with a view mere words cannot describe. I hopped out of the golf cart liken to a little girl excited and drawn to a swingset on a playground. I basked in the beauty before me that surrounded all around me marveling at how fortunate these people are to have this yard and this view. I allowed the swing to tell the stories as I sat and let my mind run free. 

I wrote months back about the water oak that had fallen in my front yard. I had lost another one shortly before in my back yard and only thought of clean up. This time I was wiser and amidst the pieces that had crumbled beneath that mighty oaks fall,I was inspired noting how lofty this tree was and how much it had lived.  I wrote of cutting chargers to display upon my tables. I also kept the stump which simply sits upon my front porch for now, and I had them cut me logs in sections storing them in the garage. Often times I must attest I shake my head at myself for saving them. They simply remind me of my loss. Somewhere in the depths the voice was very clear to wait. No need to rush about in haste. My Heart was quite clear in giving instruction to simply sit and draw from this. Thus choosing to wait until I was inspired and passionate. And so I did for quite some time. Questions bombarded me as to why I had them cut these logs and would I ever really enjoy them enough to save them.  Fast forward to the other day at my Neighborhood Garden Club I was in charge of table decorations. As if a messenger delivered it to me, I googled Garden Club Table Decorations, alas what do you think I saw?! My dusty cobwebbed beloved logs that layed there against my garage wall were going to be transformed into the most beautiful of vases. I am disappointed to state that I could not figure out the drill to have them ready for that day. Instead I improvised at the last minute with what I had on hand. The Ladies were delighted and raved about the creativity. I quickly showed them pictures and told them all about my tree. I am waiting now on the driller to teach me how to craft those beloved logs. It is important to me as if mandated that I do them as much as I can for I am imparting my very own existance into them. So as when my Daughter sets her own table many years from now; that mighty oak will still stand tall captivating those who sit around as if delighting in it's shade. The yard that this Mighty Oak lived was chosen because the same type of feeling resounded within the helm of this House as I feel at my favorite restaurant. It is imagery in motion. All this time and this tree is still giving to me in new ways. This Mighty Oak is a poetic remembrance of her childhood Home wherever life might find her. 

This was my table at Easter and I cannot wait to see those logs in all their mighty splendor filled with glorious flowers to adorn my table. Many years from now this chapter of my story may be enjoyed as in the olden days before the televisions. Where families would gather together as someone would read as laterns provided light. I imagine I would love for it to go something as this.... may I be so fortunate.  Camille thoughtfully sat at her table allowing it to speak inspiration to her senses to carry out the tone that her guests would undoubtably feel. As she took her rightful seat as the Hostess of her Easter Brunch she shared the story of her Mom. Although she lived for how ever many years she never failed to show up for duty. She poured herself into her family and guests. Camille shared her beloved tree that serenades it's listeners with all that it has seen. The crystal goblets were chosen because they have mine and my sister's names for their patterns. The silverwear we eat with were gifted to me year after year consecutively on Christmas Eve until I had a complete set. My Mom would use  them throughout my life to make the memories that make them shine with bountiful brilliance. They were chosen for me namely after flowers for floral patterns. One of my favorites is named Poppy which is what I referred to my Father. Another is Lily which my Mother often times called me and my maiden name is inscribed upon the other that was hers and passed on down to me. Her passion is undeniable as she invokes a force as if the ground quaked beneath her feet.No longer were we talking table talk, it was far greater. Her story would continue laced with her own essence intertwined with mine while being weaved into her children. 

What will your story be? We all have the opportunity as Jesse to have one or June that must have marveled with such intensity that Joseph was captivated to sit beside her. Be captivating.  Be passionate. Main ingredient; make sure you live with intention and as you move, it is with such a fluid motion that dictates a story to be embraced worthy of your life. This is The Wonderment of Life. 

                            xoxo

One of my High School Leaders in my girls group was at a concert I attended this past weekend. She posted on Instagram the following, "@moon_taxi, your music makes my soul more alive. Never change. Here's to a band full of talent and love." Well said Caroline, well said. I wholeheartedly agree. I leave with you one of their songs and this version is acoustic. May you savor in your moments that ignite your being to Dance in the River Water....  

SPIRIT HORSE

Choosing to don another layer of clothing instead of closing all my doors. Formally inviting this fresh crisp extraordinary spring air inside to set the tone and abiance within my boarders. The cool breeze twirls me in rhytym to the music bellowing from the piano.   Smiling as imageries have burst forth into reality imagining my lounge wear transforming into an equisite couture gown custom fit and designed just for me. I  saunter throughout my Home moving to the melodies I have selected for the piano to play. I nod as appreciating as if my pianist has come to life and is playing my requests to delight my senses. The ballads that beautifully strum from the dancing ivories fill my being with beautiful wonderment. Spring has officially sprung. Ironically I sing the words to the music of how sweet it is to be loved by you. The "you" in this instance is Life. The beautiful indescribable gift of the here and now and of all it is yet to be. With all the priceless gifts that Spring graces us with my senses are heightened. As the catapillar breaks forth from that cacoon into the magestic beauty of a butterfly; so we too have that opportunity bestowed in Springtime. A favorite tune of mine comes on, You are the Sunshine of my Life and as if on command I bow with outstretched arms as I lift my dress from either side with one toe pointed in front of the other. Ever so gracefully as awe inspiring I have welcomed this new Season that has taken my very breath away. 

I stand at the threshold of one of my doorways as if I was led by my gloved hand held high, bent acknowleding the femine daintiness I possess. My feet as if a graced ballerina follows dancing on pointed toes. I stop as I sense an outstretched arm waving before me to drink in all that is beheld. As my reality is dishovled hair from my grueling morning workout in sweaty attire, my yard that has beckoned me also needs a makeover. However, I see it from the depths of my Soul. As if I have morphed into the great unknown I am overcome with peace and beauty for my Heart is familiar; for it is Home. As my eyes are ushered to this vantagepoint, I am viewing in the black and white but seeing it in indescribable color. The black and white are real however I am presented as if guests in all of their finest parading before me. Not only dressed with their beauty but they exude such merriment as approaching the doorway of what is to be of this moment.  These are all of the memories this past Winter has gifted me. The not one but two snow days that I cannot recall experiencing here in the South but inevitably brought the freeze to this yard. I liken it to the years that life has lived on my very body from the greying hair and the growing lines upon my smile. The very definition that I have lived. My Daughter would quip I was getting old. Instantly I hear my Mom whisper from the marrow of my bones "she will too look back and recall it the same as this yard is a parable of her winter season."

I wipe the tears from my eyes as I reluctantly turn to go back inside. All those late nights by the fire dancing and enjoying my Daughter and friends. Days and nights spent cuddled up with my Daughter in a tent, on the trampoline or watching her and her friends on the swing. Realizing now, just how often we spoke of wishing the warmer weather would come. Chuckling as I recall my inexperience to the icy sidewalk when my excited Dog decided to bolt after my neighbors repairman. I could feel my cheeks again redden as I rub my lower back sensing that dull ache that accompanied my embarrassing display of Snowy Southern Charm. The repairman could not contain his laughter when rescuing me from my fall and in turn I perhaps had the best belly laugh of the Winter. I truly do not believe my yard looked any Merrier than when it was strung with Christmas Lights this year. All of these moments were gifts and will continue to be. Moreover,  I would assume Winter's from now will be measured by these. As for you who have read my thoughts or posts these are the Chapters I speak of in our Autobiographies. The Dreams that now fuel my being were born within these very moments.  This is the Wonderment of Life. 

I leave with you a song that was one of my favorites twenty five or more years ago that has recently peaked again for me. I love this video for it is him now and moments back when he recorded it. Saddle up those horses, we got a trail to blaze. Into the wild blue yonder of God's amazing grace, into the glorious unknown. This is the Great Adventure, the Ride of Your Life.

xoxo

POWER-SURGE

Peddling along the outer streets of my Neighborhood, dodging the walkers and runners on the sidewalk. Smiling while exchanging early morning nods and greetings. There is something invigorating about being out and about before the sun awakens. It is as if you get a bolt of inspiration as if you got a head start before the gun went off at a marathon race. Realizing at this precise moment if I don't get another thing accomplished today I have this here moment of empowerment. Noting that as I organize within my mind sorting the tasks that lie before me; I have been given more than I ever could possibly need to supercede my expectations. Riding all around basking in the glorious weather we had been gifted. Giddy as a school girl, invisioning taking my hands off the handlebars drinking in this merriment. Liberated by the opportunity this moment has granted me. You see I am in the midst of early Spring Cleaning, combined with one of my New Years Resolutions of getting organized. Daunting does not even begin to describe my overwhelmed status. Somehow taking this break to fuel my soul, to clear my head in order to spark my creativity I feel my innermost parts start to arise as liken to the dawning of a new day. 

As I sit and partake in a pitstop of one of my Daughter's and my new obsessions; it is a bowl of spoonfed goodness oddly enough the establishment is named Soul Bowls. And that it is. As I am trying out for me a new delight that my Daughter highly recommended and implored that I had to try. Deliciously enthralled, I am reading someone's post (@randallswise) who always inspires me and ignites within me as if he jump starts my battery, to channel my better self. This morning he posted a quote by Tony Robbins, "where focus goes, energy flows." He wrote of recalling vividly being fully present, loving this moment in time. He challenged by asking the simple question, "where do your thoughts go?" "Are you focused on what you have or on what's missing?" He said if you are focused on what's missing you'll never find happiness and joy in life. He left it with a challenge to all of us reading and following to please share in the comments how you'll focus this weekend,how we will better appreciate what we 
have. Simplicity had never rang more true. I write of this earnestly attesting to this great phenomenon but I drank it in as if I had heard it for the first time. For each day finds me with new circumstances and life moments which I find delightful. Otherwise this life would be found weighty and humdrum. Boring. 

As I sat upon my bike I felt supercharged as if I had been overhauled both mind and body. My Spirit was on fire as I peddled back towards Home. I found clarity as I focused where I desired my energy to flow and found an imagery in my own life situation at hand. I was surged with enthusiasm to not only get back to my task at hand of organizing but relating it to my life where I likened my what earlier was perceived as unsurmountable piles of havoc. Realizing how in Life we get distracted and often times overcome by all our life moments, and before we know it our focus somehow shifted as if mesmerized by a magician we were entranced as if hyptmotized only seeing a mirage. Life Clutter. When I left my organizing, I was dispondent for my focus was on the misplaced items, you know the things that did not belong where they were or what I did not have in order. Where treasures once were showcased all I felt was smothered by the disorderly way these spaces were filled. Sensing now how I was jumbled, I quickly stopped my bike and I asked Siri to define clutter. Smiling as I read its definement as unwanted echos that interfere with the obervation of signals on a radar screen. 

Wonderment fills my being as I unveil the power of passion in the gift of Focus. To channel that energy in such a manner that is appreciative of even the situations that are currently out of place. I have that Friday Feeling that finds me full of vigor keeping perspective in it's rightful place enchanted by this moment that engulfs me. Stop and own your Life. Know where your place is, of exactly who you are and all that you are meant to be. Not distracted thus forgetting all that only you embody losing your thunder you were created to roar. Last night my Daughter called for some things to bring to her at her Dad's. Timing was terrible as I was crosseyed knee deep in disarray, paralized by all my attempts to rectify and bring order it seemed as if my actions had made things worse. However, I chose to embrace her distraction if for nothing else to run away from my situation at hand. I gathered up her items skillfully, mindfully as if I had nothing else on tap. As I handed her the things she requested, I smiled knowing full well I had fueled it with my heart and soul putting all I had within those moments. Alas my reward was when she looked at her niece smiling, proud as she inhaled her requested blanket that I had freshly lavished with her favorite linen spray and held it out inviting her to draw in it's beauty. Think not it a waste to embrace these moments that seem to be taking you opposite of your Dreams. Life is meant to be lived fully, deeply and entirely. This is The Wonderment of Life. xoxo

PARTY OF ONE

Walking into a party the dimly lit room was filled with spellbounding energy that stopped you in your tracks. Force so intense as if you walked into a glass door. That moment where your heart raced and you paused to catch your breath. Adrenaline raced throughout your being engulfing you with a surge of energy; that when you blinked weakness swept in as if fatigued after a phenomenal workout. You marvel as you gaze around the room drinking in the splendor this moment bestows. You take your time embracing the awe that has overtaken you. From the candles lit to the beautifully fashioned presentation of tapas and tidbits. Liken to being in Paris for Fashion Week amidst the couture as these models entice the room with silver trays adorned with picturesque delights that heighten the senses. Distracted by the guests watching the servers, you see their eyes light up with each step closer your attention is fixated on their meeting. Merriment sets in as they are liken to children on Christmas morning, you strain to see what entices on that next platter. The music is crooning balancing the voices that fill this room with lively chatter. A violinist walks among the room serenading the guests as they attentively smile and nod wide eyed with wonder. There is a couple slowly dancing in a corner, the gentleman twirls his companion rhythmically. It is the epitome of precision and perfection in Entertaining. It is as standing again in Paris only now, in the Louvre Museum taking in the splendor of a painting that has come to life.

I liken this to us when inspired by not only living our Life but loving it now and yet daring to Dream. We are in our element and orchestrated by the most precise conductor when we lock into that which sets our soul on fire. On Instagram I enjoy a weekly inspiration called Whole Heart which I highly recommend. Each Monday they will have a thought for the week to focus on and it is not only to better yourself but everyone around you to impact our world for the better. They give me that extra jolt needed with my cup of bulletproof coffee on the brand new start of a brand new week. This past week they focused on Dreams which ignited my soul like wildfire. You see, the first paragraph above is when we lock eyes with that Dream. As I often say our lives are the greatest party we will ever attend. It is the one Main Event that we will be both the Host or Hostess and the Invited Guest. That I have the power to set the tone on this "life party" I am attending....right now. 

This Month my Daughter turned into a Teenager. She has been gushing about it being her "Golden Birthday" (it is when you turn the age of the day you were born. In her case she turned 13 on the 13th.) since I can remember. I became rather nervous as the day was approaching but no concrete plans had been made. To add to the pressure, her age found me in an added disadvantage because normally I would proceed on my own but with her  teenage independance I was clearly at a loss. Knowing we could not let this day pass without proper recognition we got to work. We rented out and had an all night party at a trampoline park facility. I am one about celebrating the mark you are embarking on leaving in order to usher you formally into where you are going. It is in essence taking this moment of time and as taking an orange sliced and placed upon a juicer being able to drink in it's delicious juice that is the very heart of the fruit.  We held a banner that traditionally we do on the last day of school upon running through you are leaving the one grade to move on to the next. How often we get so entangled with the Tomorrow's we miss out on the Today or what is next instead of what is present and all that it is gifted to us, right now. Being all in right now. Since all of the girls that were present will be turning teenage years or recently have, ran together cheering and laughter filled that vast place warming our hearts and souls. Attesting that this is something awe inspiring, THEY are awe inspiring. Proclaiming most importantly to themselves this next phase of life NOW is one to take on boldly and to go after life with the same gusto. Shakespheare's play "The Merry Wives of Windsor" has a quote I absolutely adore it is, "the world is thine oyster/which I with sword will open."  Basically, this expression just implies that somebody will make the most out of life in a circumstance. How would you open a shellfish? By prying it open.

You can't simply tenderly touch a shellfish with a blade; you need to put some muscle behind it. However, we think all that diligent work is absolutely justified, despite all the trouble because there's a shot of a gigantic result inside. Not just are they absolutely delectable—once in a while there's a pearl inside.

Out in the enormous world, there are unlimited conceivable outcomes, yet you need to attempt to discover them. Also, a pearl isn't simply lounging around for the taking, yet a clam is. That implies that regardless of the possibility that you discover a shellfish, there's no assurance that it will pay off.

Once in a while clams have nothing inside (but more shellfish). The lesson? Anybody can get a clam, yet just the fortunate discover a pearl inside. In case you're citing this line, then risks are you're a hopeful person trusting that the clam you get will be one of the fortunate ones that really contains a wonderful pearl. I found this when researching what this quote meant and found it even more inspiring! 

 My Daughter has not stopped talking about how this Golden Birthday was more than she anticipated all these years while continually speaking of it often over time and she now attests she will never forget it. We sang Happy Birthday at the stroke of Midnight. We savored and celebrated this magical moment. I too shall never forget all that this milestone birthday or one of my most coveted Dreams, My Daughter taught me. This is the Wonderment of Life. xo

WISH UPON A STAR

This week we remembered Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.  in all of his accomplishments, exhortations, inspiring words and philosophy.
All because, this great man had a Dream. Overcoming Doubts and Fears his life is still impacting and encouraging us all to dare to Dream. I find it extremely ironic that often times when people refer to "Dreamers" they inject notions such as they have their heads in the clouds or flighty.  In  Dreaming I would say that this is a very accurate statement only difference is to be effective, your core needs to be anchored by the weighty roots of your very being - your Heart.  As in a match of dodge ball you have to be able to move, swerve and contort yourself. If you are too rigid and lack the fluid movement of being loose and limber you will be eliminated way before your time. Dreamers have mental agility from rigorous mental training. For instance, MLK was quoted with so many phenomenal nuggets that were born in the hardships of enduring to see his Dreams come true. Such stamina is exerted when we are Dream chasing.  It is empowerment injected within your very soul that sings out like that song in the Night that Morning is coming. I love this quote he said, "Only in the Darkness can you see the stars." My mind carries me away with being in a country field away from the city lights. Darkness veils the night as you cannot see your hand in front of your face only sensing that something is near. Oftentimes this is the same in persuit of our Dreams nothing in sight only the sense that it is near. Recently, I found myself looking for the stars, literally. Self doubt, fear and fatigue all covered me like heavy blankets weighing down my spirits. I went in search of truth, debating if perhaps I were desiring too much. Perhaps I should simmer down and find contentment within the boarders I was now residing. With a picnic packed with the elements fitting for a very cold night I held my cup of toddy closely to my body as if embracing not only the warmth but the soothing aroma. I laid back on the hood of the truck and drank in the Beauty that not only surprised me but it engulfed my being with the sky so full of stars shining brighter than that of the most rare diamond. The snap of the cold air and the sounds of nature at nighttime worked harmoniously in having the stars of the show take the stage. 

I let the outside elements woo me as liken to flirtacious and playful banterings and in a moment I had fallen in love. In love with not only my Dream(s) but the dark moment that when I thought to give up or settle instead I was being lured to defend my Dream as if standing up for the honor of it. I realized the fortitude I needed to suffice my uncertainty would be found in the connection of it mattering. The no matter what type of matter. Vowing my commitment because it was the wick that sustained my flame and fire. I was enticed to persevere all because it mattered to my soul. It is where the spotlight shines when I measure it within the boundaries of my faith and roots. Throwing out the hypothetical tape measure by attempting to tailor fit my very being liken to those around me. Unleashing the vibrance of my innermost desires to soar as a bird takes flight that had been entangled and unable to fly.  Calling to mind yet another one of MLK's power punches of inspiration. "Our Lives begin to end the day we become silent about the things that Matter." Right then and there I connected where only before I felt garbled, scattered, confused and ready to quit. It was if my plug had been united with that of the extension cord or socket and instantly I had power.  I saw on Twitter yesterday a video clip where a Gentleman got out of his car to give a homeless man on the side of the road his coat. It gets better. They hugged one another as he put it on him. It was such a beautiful act of humanity and of what mattered to this man. Thus inspiring me from deep within as if to high five my very soul.  It mattered to him to follow his heart and it impacted all who have been fortunate enough to view it. It was heartfelt and soulful. Most importantly imagine the surge of Hope it injected into that homeless man. You see these are the very examples of it only takes one to make a difference or the beloved song from our childhood, it only takes a spark. If it matters, you will find a way I read earlier on someone's post. I wholeheartedly agree. I was researching the science on matter and it's definement as a whole. I was searching as intently as when a dog is on the hunt for what it smells and has him spellbound sniffing so agressively we can hear it. 



Think for a moment, pretend you too are sitting on top of your truck. Cold windshield behind you as you gaze into the stars that are always there, just for most of us within the city limits they are overshadowed by the lights of other things. They are always there. Just as magically bright. Our Dreams of what matters are shining deep within us.  In moments when we abandon all restrictions and allow our soul to run free after our Heart; the power of passion is unleashed. Anyone who has ever built or reconstructed a House knows that those blueprints were never in stone as in the dodgeball analogy you have to be able to tweak and revise. Vowing that even though the blueprints are not quite as precise as hoped for we will forge on. Another quote from the one and only; “Faith is taking the first step even when you can't see the whole staircase.”  The Wonderment of Life here is another one of MLK's quotes; “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” I can imagine the thoughts that swirled in that gentleman's mind to not get out of his car and do what unctioned him to do such an awe inspiring act. Fervency overcomes me when I see someone who is free to be themselves and embraces what matters most to them against any odd; against all odds. The one who follows the crowd will usually go no further than the crowd. The one who walks alone is likely to find themselves in places no one has ever been before -Albert Einstein. Here is something from someone I follow on Instagram. She too was moved with such passion from the movie The Greatest Showman. We all have been given the ultimate gift of Living and building, designing custom fit our Life may we inspire all those around us as we chase our Dreams even when we have to dodge.  xoxo

PASSION PROJECT

Life is full of Wonder. That statement could complete the synopsis of my entire point of this blog in general; especially this one as I am writing it. Looking at this picture it makes me smile from the depths of my soul, it is from my sofa in my Living Room. Even when I am alone my heart is full of memories shared here and instantly it comes to life. I reflect on the word life here titling Chapter 1 of 12 of 2018. Mulling over this word my heart grasps the defining portion of the following, a way or manner of living. This bottle of wine we were discussing with friends at Dinner the other evening is a fascinating must have. Phenomenal gifting choice and Host or Hostess gift. My friends were showing us this app that goes with this wine and there are different bottles and criminals where when you place your phone in front of the label they come to life to tell their story. Fascinating presentation takes gifting to an entirely different level as the price is very friendly and it yields more than meets the eye... and palate. I liken this to Life itself and how every single second of every single day we too can yield more than meets the eye inspiring not only our very own soul but impacting others around us. With this being the beginning of a New Year, slate is swiped clean so to speak and we all have a new found confidence or added doses to our existing amount to where we are able to do much and accomplish even more. Notice in the picture several candles are lit and my fire has been started. However if you look closely if you did not already notice, my fire has yet to ignite and be all that it was designed to be and do. The gas is going and I see my logs turning red hot but the flames have not displayed the dazzling blaze I desired. Blaze defined is intensely burning fire. I am drawn to the adjective intensely here as it is something full force and not stopped at half way. 

The thing about this picture at the top are the moments that were behind this snapshot of time. My Daughter was sick with a fever and we were the three bears except there were two. She would sleep and sweat her fever off. When she awoke, I would have her fresh clean clothes to change into. Then as a doorman in disguise, I would usher her to a dreamy plush new surrounding  with delightful smelling linens where I had already lit candles before I got her so they filled the air with highly pleasing aromas where if only for a moment she forgot she was sick. I must have changed linens just shy of a half a dozen times this day. It was an honor to change them each time in spite of normally not being very fond of this task because I knew how this would make her feel. As any of you know when you have a sick one in the House it is fruit basket turnover. I must have climbed those stairs enough to count it a workout smiling as my foot went in front of the other. Knowing that whatever she was now requesting ever so great or small was my part in flaming her fire to ignite and feel better. You see by the time I was able to have a mere moment to myself I fell onto the sofa drained but eager to watch my awards show I had recorded because I was busy with her when it came on. I looked around my surroundings that are engraved upon my Soul searching for encouragement. In my mind I envisioned myself with an empty glass holding it high in the air imagining as if there were a butler to fill that emptiness to satisfy not only my thirst but my being. Interrupting my mirage jolting me back as if a herald loudly announced the proclamation reminding my being that this is Home and it is my Oasis from which I draw. In a moment as if shot with a B12 I was on my feet lighting those candles and starting a fire to suffice my weariness as in rewarding myself for my efforts. Realizing as I struck the match and it made that unforgettable sound as it came to life inhaling that distinct smell that this is a metaphor of us in our pursuit of our Dreams, Resolutions and Goals. 

Often times we get weary and grow sluggish needing our flames to be ignited or stirred up to unleash our enthusiasm. As awoken from a deep slumber rested and vibrant we are gallant as we arise to conquor. Often times we look everywhere but within for the fuel to cause our flames to burn fervently. As if the "something more" is the answer when Gratitude shines the light on the power we already possess. Think of it as being Clark Kent jumping into the telephone booth being transformed. Often times we overlook the ordinary within our midst when it is indeed the extraordinary! After appreciating and embracing within my here and now my telephone rang and it was one of my beautiful, dear girlfriends who was at Dinner the night before. She said she was dropping off a happy on my doorstep all the while not knowing that my Daughter was sick and how daunting my day had been and what impeccable timing she had. As you can imagine much to my delight when it was indeed that wine! Her reacting to that which pricked her heart to do for me maybe she thought not a big deal; resulted in a vigorous brand new woman who then found the fortitude to not only embark on another day in what felt like forever in the land of fever but to overachieve in loving my Daughter back to health with all the extras I could muster up. I believe it starts within the realm of our Hearts that our Dreams are born and as in tilling up the land, we are ready to plant our seed of a dream and then shower it with the necessary variables of life needed for not only growth but the manifestation of what was toiled after. 

I posted on Facebook last week about being blown away from the Movie Musical, The Greatest Showman. I cried from the very beginning to the very end. I went the next day to see it again with a girlfriend to see it for her second time as well. Not only inspired again I picked up on things perhaps missed the first. All ages are being inspired by it. I was playing the soundtrack over the weekend in my car and the entire fully loaded car broke out singing and attesting that this is the Best movie. I marved at how much it effected them and these songs and they are seventh and eighth graders telling of how they cried throughout the show and how moved they were. My Daughter and I went the first time seeing this together. The Theatre was packed all ages it was awe inspiring to see grown men even the elderly that I sat by and witnessed to be so incredibly moved. Most everyone stood and applauded when it was over.  It is because our Dreams are real. Life is the greatest show. We were destined for a unique purpose within these moments called life and only we can declare how far we will go and the measure by which we will be affected. It ignited within me that this message is incredibly needed and the uniting of one another is more than cruical to achieving that which we dream. My evening was made spectacular by the thoughtfulness of my loving friend. By her kind gesture fueled by her love and showing of support of Me and who I am, it allowed me to be all that I dreamed of being for my Daughter. Of being more than she anticipated. In turn I was able to pay it forward for another when they have been weary knowing how invaluable the simplist of act can mean. Uniting together as if a force field that brings not only something for ourselves but it continues to thrive as it is given again and again as in the domino effect.  I will be mindful as I journey not only in this year but forevermore how everyone is incredibly special and dreaming their own dreams. Furthermore, the importance of what truly matters for that is what Dreams are made of. The Wonderment Of Life is when we value the here and now absorbing this very moment as the air that we breathe we fully experience life as custom fit to our own unique manner of living. I leave with you a beautfiul well known quote that I believe the people she speaks of are metaphors of life moments and one of the best music videos I have posted that too was shared with me by a friend. xoxo

Yvonne Pierre wrote the following:
“For every person who closed the door in my face, thank you. For every person who told me I wasn't good enough, thank you. For every person who laughed and told me that I was wasting my time going to college, because I was going to fail, thank you. For every person who tried to break me, thank you. For every person who took my kindness for weakness, thank you. For every person who told me I was wasting time chasing my dreams because I would fail, thank you. It could of broke me. From the core of my heart, I thank you. I truly mean it, because if it weren't for each of you I wouldn't be who I am today. I wouldn't of spend hours and loss sleep studying. I wouldn't developed tough skin. You pushed me to think about what I "really" want out of life. You pushed me to master my craft. You helped me develop the drive, passion and determination. You pushed me to not wait for someone to believe in my vision, but to find a way to make things happen. I know you didn't "intend" to, but I thank you for teaching me to believe in myself! AND you taught me to TRUST in God and lean on my faith, not man. Thank You!”