Friday Morning Ramble

The past month has been a whirlwind of activity. Mary was here for 2 weeks. It was so lovely- I don't really have words for it. We talked and talked. We laughed. Our little family came together in wonderful little moments- playing cards under a tree, going to the movies, bike riding. I was struck how much Mary had grown up during these two years in college. She is thoughtful, deeply engaged, and quirky as ever. I just love being her Mom and this new phase of our relationship.

My Katie, turned 12 and is embracing her inner teen with great passion. I am humbled and amazed at well she adapted to her new hometown. We had a great birthday party for her. Texas agrees with my little girl and I could not be happier.

My Mom visited us for a week while my Dad was in in Africa on a mission trip. We had a great time. It was fun to have a chance for her to catch up with Mary.

Towards the end of my Dad's trip he had a serious fall in Africa and shattered his shoulder. He had to return early and have a full shoulder replacement. He is doing well and has been well supported by a loving community.

That's the news.....

Me- I'm both tired and energized. I've been going very fast for the past 8 weeks or so. I keep dreaming of curling up with a book by the ocean and unwinding. In California, when life got tough I would head over the hill to Half Moon Bay. The first site of the ocean would allow me to breath. There is lots of beauty around me in Texas, but I haven't found that spot or it hasn't found me. At the same time, I am so deeply humbled and thrilled with the connections in my life. My kids love me and teach more that I could ever imagine. My parents continue to grow in a way that I hope to follow. My sweet, sweet husband loves me and supports me through it all. This all sounds a little cliche as I type, but it's not. It's messy at times, but I am very happy with where my life has landed.

My work with Schools Attuned has been very good this year. I have really enjoyed working with teachers and helping them in their quest to reach all learners. I have been imagining a new business to start. It is fun to think about new possiblitilies and the synergies of my background in counseling, teens, and education. I'm thinking of starting an educational consulting practice focused on the post secondary options for teens with learning differences or mental health issues. This summer I'm finishing up my certificate at UCLA in College Counseling. It's going to be fun to see where this goes.

Our community continues to be a huge blessing and support. We have an every other home group which has exceeded my expectations. I love coming together as a group and the space we have created for each other. I still deeply miss my Anglican roots and tradition. This feels like a wound that has not yet healed or resolved.

This Friday morning after a long update- I feel grateful for beyond words for all the people in my life. I am a tired lucky woman.