I Stood Beside the Ocean

Sunset at Venice Beach

I love so much about the beach...most of all is sunsets though. I have always loved sunsets, I find them fascinating. I think that one of the coolest parts about sunsets is that no two people see the exact same one. Even two people standing next to each other...the light is slightly different, or they could be focusing on two completely different parts...

Somehow...someone or something has to be some master painter creating all of this just for us to see. Amazing, right?

Learning how to live....

There are days,
I can't believe that you're not here...
That you're not by my side,
Walking hand in hand,
Stride for stride beside me.

There are moments,
I wonder where you are,
What you are doing...
And if you ever think of me
with anything greater than hatred.
There are small moments,
Where I wish I knew
You didn't hate me.

There are small moments,
Where I still feel
Like I hate you.

I walk and run,
No hand in mine,
Taking life's strides
As I please.
I laugh and love,
Walk along the beach,
Watch each sunset
All alone.

I realized...
That I would rather be alone.
Than be with you.

I realized...
That I am so happy now...
I am so content.
My life is so fulfilled.

I never could have gotten here with you.

These steps,
This path,
Has been mine alone.

A Girl Scout is Always Prepared...

So, after a fun day shopping--we get to within a mile of Scott and Vanessa's...and the car overheats EXTREMELY...and we have to pull over to try and fix it. Turns out, there was no oil and no coolant. Don't worry people...we have it under control...as long as my Dad is still on the phone.

While the ordeal was stressful and but a slight damper on our evening, all in all I was thankful for the experience. It was a nice reminder that no matter what happens--there's a way out of it--there's always some way to fix it...and you can have fun doing it!

In case you were wondering--we did make it to the apartment ok.
Ok, that is...until I locked the key in the car.

It's all gravy in the end anyway....right?? ;-)

Vindicated....again...

I got to spend today on Huntington beach with Scott, Emmy, and Brittney. It was absolutely wonderful...and gorgeous.

Being back on this beach reminded me how I felt this summer...all my feelings of freedom and hope. I am still vindicated...I am still flawed--but I am still cleaning up so well--seeing in me now the things I never saw before...

With the Girls

Finally on our way to LA!! We are all so excited to have the chance to get away for a weekend!

I am especially glad to be able to get away...to take a brief respite. There is so much going on, that having the chance to be completely away from home...is so very welcome.

Here's to more adventures--and more laughs with friends!!

Packing

This is Kairi's favorite thing to do when I pack...try and get into the suitcase to either 1) come with me or 2) just make me feel guilty. Of course, I always feel guilty when I have to leave her and her brother behind.

I am so excited for this trip...I really have no idea what it is going to hold. I really think I want to move to CA, but I want to make sure before I make the big trip out there...

So, with minimal luggage in hand....it's time for an adventure!!

Hope Springs Eternal

Don't forget to stop and smell the roses...
They blossom and die all too quickly.

Friends

A bored game?
Nope.
A wonderful board game,
A nice evening,
With great friends.

These Hands

These two hands are all I've got.
I can sculpt and build,
Draw, cradle, create and hold.
I can tie knots and bows,
Snap, button and sew.

But some days,
I can't do any of these things.
Some days, it's difficult to move both hands...
And all I have is one.

There are days the frustration builds,
And my hopes are dim...
That I am afraid.
Afraid to lose all I know.

Separate...
My heart and soul
From my hands.
Impossible.

Friends to count on...

Smiles all around!

I am so fortunate to have stumbled upon such amazing people in my life. I can't believe that a year ago, I was so alone.

I am so very thankful for my friends...who tolerate my crazy, and make me feel loved....

You all are the best!! Thank you!