The Best of Them

May 27. 2019

I meet with a small group on Tuesday mornings. Last week, in leading up to Memorial Day, the conversation cast a wider net of remembering and shared stories of loved ones who have died.

Sarah said, " I cook some of my Mom's favorite foods."

Adrian said, " My Dad never made a big deal about anything, especially if something got broken, even if someone put a dent in his car. He was like, no big deal. So, I'm like my Dad that way."

I said,"My Mom was a gardener, a letter writer. I like to write people snail mail, even if it's a simple postcard. My Dad liked to hike and he always chatted it up with strangers. He would say, tell me about your life? I like doing all those things too."

Gina said, " Being the best of them in my life now is how I honor and remember."

This Memorial Day, and every day, we honor and remember the fallen who bravely served and protected our country, as well as those who continue to do so, every day. Thank you.

For those we love and miss, let's keep them close by being the best of them.

Namaste,
b 🌀

Turtle Medicine 🐢

May 20. 2019

Here is a message from Turtle, of hidden strengths and talents, patience and support from both the Universe and Mother Gaia herself. Turtle is here to tell us that no matter how large an obstacle seems, with perseverance and faith, it will be overcome...

Yet Turtle is not in a rush. There is no stress, no overwhelm, just graceful, consistent, steady progressions. Work with Turtle Medicine and patience, calm, balance, and grace is yours. Slow down and experience the world around you in detail. Connect to Mother Earth and all her wonders. Nurture and protect your creative projects in your heart.

- Jamie Sans (Medicine Cards)

Thanks to my dear brother, Rob, for sending this tiny movie of Turtle. With the full moon and all the swirling energies of these times we live in, this is a beautiful and timely message:

• slow down 

• practice infinite patience with oneself (and others)

• tune into the wonders everywhere

• trust in the creative process inherent in everything

... lay your eggs and see what happens 

xo b

Best Thing I Ever Did 🌀

May 13. 2019

I always wanted to be a Mom.

I didn't necessarily want to be a wife. I mean, that wasn't my driving longing in life. 

But holding my own baby, yes. Watching Mr. Roger's Neighborhood and eating peanut butter and jelly sandwiches in the middle of the day, yes. Because my daughters are eighteen years apart, I was blessed to have two rounds of Fred Rogers and Bert and Ernie. Some days I needed those shows more than my kids.

I had two rounds of running around in rainstorms, telling stories while they soaked in the tub while I sat on the floor drinking wine, trips to the supermarket in butterfly wings, maybe no panties - if you can't beat them, join them? I always wanted my own pair of sparkly wings.

Conversely, I learned that wearing underwear in layers is an option, that all you need is a wagon and an umbrella and maybe some goldfish (the kind you eat) + you've got yourself a home close enough so Mom can see you through the window while you're parked in the driveway. I learned never go anywhere without a Go Bag: a book, snacks, a drink, change of clothes.

Oh, Moms can tell many happy, funny tales. We never tire.

I know too:

Not everyone has kids.
Some people have Moms who die too young.
Some people have Moms who are kind of crazy and not that fun to hang with.
Mothering can be lots of things that have nothing to do with kids.

This whole thing is a wild, wonderful, sometimes really weird crapshoot.

I'm feeling lucky:
My own mother was the sun to our family solar system. ☀️
My daughters are smart, lovely, funny, strong, kind people. Did I say funny?
Jesse + Claire - dearest and most cherished people.














I celebrate my good fortune, every day.

Hands down, best thing I ever did.

xo b

damn the doubts 🌀

May 6. 2019

Our doubts are traitors,
And make us lose the good we oft might win
By fearing its attempt.

- William Shakespeare

This gem from Willy S. + the tiny card collection sent by my friend, Pearly, feel good enough to set our sails for the week.

(I wrote a whole other thing but deleted it. The message = simplify.)

What little (or big) thing are you going to attempt this week?

Do it. ☀️

I'm not saying it's easy, but hell-

Damn the doubts.
Don't lose the good.
__________________________________________________________

xo  b