Contemplative

Today I have a contemplative mind.

I've just gotten around to putting some thought into the spiritual impact of the events of last year, and what a tremendous effect those events have had on my view of the future. I'm not sure if it's a blessing or a curse that we are unable to see things as they are happening, that we can only look back to observe and understand the lessons. If I were more dedicated to writing in my journal, I could look back and see how things progressed; however, it wouldn't be the same as it is now with a somewhat distant observation.

Several months with Tony out of work held such uncertainty. As he struggled to find what he needed professionally, I struggled to find the best way to support him emotionally. Our relationship grew stronger as a result of finding balance together through a challenging situation.

Having Veronica leave for college in San Franciso made the house finally feel a bit empty. As we redesigned the girls' room to mark the change, we still wanted to give them a warm and loving place called home. Seeing them hanging out in their new room over winter break, both on the computer, listening to music, texting their friends, and laughing about days gone by, that warmth of having the house full was present once again. I may not have that on a regular basis anymore, but when I do, I cherish every moment.

Watching Daddy fight cancer from afar is tough. He's on my mind and in my heart every day, as is Mama. I admire both of them, and I feel the warmth of the love they share when I'm with them. I just wish that was a little more often. I see in them where I got so many of the traits that make me who I am. I know with certainty that I was blessed with the most amazing parents. I hope that as I age, people tell me I'm just like them - that would be a beautiful compliment, and one that could not have been realized when I saw the world with 20-year-old eyes.

My friendships for which I'm so grateful continued to evolve this year. There were moments of joy, fear and uncertainty. One friend gave birth to a lovely little girl, one changed career paths, one continues to focus on making a succesful business, another battled and still fights cancer, and another provided constant sisterly support to the one battling cancer. These women are strong in ways that are written in the most acclaimed novels. I am honored to know them, and say thanks daily that they are in my life.

I sometimes wish I were more like one of those people that seemingly has the answers, understands the lessons and knows precisely what's next. But I know I'll never be one of them. I have to think about things for a while, and today I thought a lot. And I realized more fully that part of the joy in life is in the discovery of the lessons and in the distant observations.

I wanted to sit down and write some amazing entry that would give my visitors something to truly ponder. Then I figured, why not just tell what's on my mind?

We all face exciting and difficult challenges and, in spite of them all, it's the support and love of the people we care for that makes each and every new day a blessing to behold. Now, go hug somebody you love.

Rachel Turns 20

Our girlie turned 20 on Friday. I could say time passes quickly, and it seems like yesterday that her entire little body would fit compactly into my lap to hide in a coozie, giggling the entire time. But that's too obvious. If you aren't familiar with a coozie, perhaps someday Rachel (or Veronica) will share. What I will say is that she is a beautiful, smart and funny young lady. She has classic taste in fashion, with just the right bit of trend thrown in for fun; she is discerning with art, whether it be music, books, movies, or other; and she is a romantic at heart, just like her dad. And she is a talented and amazing writer. I observe her with great pride in my heart, and the happy tears fall quietly knowing that our teaching, discipline and love will now be things she passes along.


Here's a pic of us last night at Buca di Beppo, where we celebrated with Lynn, Janna, Grandma Connie and Vince (Rachel's friend. Since I don't know how they refer to each other, I'm sticking with friend for now. She can correct me with her comments).

But now you're wondering what Vince looks like, right? Here he is with Rachel, hamming it up a bit for the camera.

Thanks for checking in with my blog today. Until next time...

Here's to 2008

New Year's Eve was a much anticipated day for me. As most of you know by now, I've been letting my natural hair color grow out since July. And the reveal day finally arrived. After 20 years, I am now all natural. It's been interesting these past few months - most men have thought the idea cool, most women have expressed that they think I'm crazy. Why is that? Is this further proof that women actually are dressing (and coloring) for other women? If men like us natural, are we just fooling ourselves? It takes confidence for a woman under the age of 80 to sport her real hair in todays environment. And I believe we're going to see more of this trend.

I feel fantastic! Kwanna gave me a great haircut- who else would I trust to this? Granted, it was necessary to cut my hair quite short but, girls, it only takes me 5 minutes to do complete hair and makeup. I'm making a list of all the things I can now do for myself with the extra time. I'm guessing you're wondering, "what does she look like?" Well...

Tony and I had a lovely dinner last night at Tracht's in downtown Long Beach to ring out the old, ring in the new. He was THE most dashing man in the entire place. He really knows how to put together a great look. And I finally got to wear the fantastic scarf he bought me in Barcelona. Here we are in all our party glory - aren't we fabulous!?



And to top off the holiday season just right, this morning we spent time in the hottub with a cup of coffee. This is just one of the reasons California livin' is so great.



Wishing all of you the most wonderful blessings for 2008!

Christmas Blessings

Christmas was wonderful. Having Rachel and Veronica both home at the same time was the best part of the season for me. I'm sure Tony would agree. Parties and lunches with friends were, as always, fun and festive. It's truly all about spending time with the people you love. For those of you we didn't get to see this month, here's a picture of our girls on Christmas Eve - at Claim Jumper by the fireplace, as you'll always find us for dinner on Christmas Eve.