Remembering Dr. Maya Angelou

                         Photo courtesy of mlquotes.com

The first time I read one of Maya Angelou's books was in high school as an assigned summer reading. After having read some of the other books on the list I concluded that this would indeed be another boring reading assignment before I ever opened the cover. However, I was proved wrong. Not only was it short compared to some others on the list but it was also a page turner, filled with all the events of her young life. As the years went on I have read more of her work, both poetry and prose. I have to say that in each piece of work, she speaks volumes beyond what is actually on the page. Her words have inspired me in so many ways and challenged me in so many more to be, to learn, to reach, to give, and yes, to teach all within my reach. Thank you Dr. Angelou for helping me to see beyond what is right in front of me and may your strength and spirit live on in the legacy of your beautiful yet powerful words.

Happy Birthday Gabbi!!!!!!

                                        

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GABBI!!!!!!

The Parenting Journey

Parenting is a journey. One which lasts a lifetime and most certainly one of the most rewarding journeys one can ever take. It is a journey that is filled to the brim with choices and decisions. You can choose to not take a step or to walk as long as it takes to reach your final destination. You can choose to run through it and not notice the beautiful sunny days or blooming tulips or feel the gentle breeze as it dances across your face, or you can choose to be fully engaged, taking in every moment, being fully there, fully present, whether walking leisurely along the way or sprinting toward the finish line. It is a choice or many choices--each one affecting a life or in some cases, lives in permanent ways. On this journey we have many, many days, some good, some not so good, some okay, some bad, some disappointing, some sad, some awesome, and some special. For me, today is one of the special days, as it marks my Gabbi girl's 14th birthday. Birthdays remind me that even though I will always be a parent as long as I live, that this time while the children are still at home is so precious and very much fleeting. I am reminded to enjoy the journey, to soak it all in and be fully there, even on the days when I am overwhelmed and feeling defeated by fatigue. Enjoy the journey, its one you only have the opportunity to take once!