A Weekend of Refreshing Retreat

 Finding Solace in Family and Tranquility

This past weekend, I embarked on a journey to Eager, Arizona, to spend time with my mom. After a bustling weekend in Phoenix with my kids and their friends the week prior, I returned home feeling pleasantly exhausted but invigorated by the memories made. However, this weekend held a different energy - one of tranquility and rejuvenation.

Arriving at my mom's home, I immediately felt a sense of calm wash over me. The wind howled outside, but within the walls of her cozy abode, there was a serene stillness that embraced us. We decided to take it easy and indulge in simple pleasures.

Together, my mom and I delved into old memories, sifting through cherished belongings and reminiscing about times gone by. We also ventured out to explore quaint local shops filled with unique gifts and antiques, immersing ourselves in the charm of small-town treasures.

In the company of my mom and step-dad, we shared laughter and stories over drinks and dinner, cherishing each moment of togetherness. One evening, my mom and I embarked on our own version of a wine and paint night, letting our creativity flow freely onto canvases as we bonded over shared passions.

But amidst the leisurely activities, there was a deeper purpose to my visit. My mom has been grappling with the emotional strain of having to put my grandmother in hospice care, and I knew that my presence would bring her comfort during this challenging time.

Spending these precious moments with my mom was not only a gift to her but also a gift to myself. Despite a busy week awaiting me upon my return, the opportunity to connect with family and offer support proved to be invaluable.

As I reflect on this weekend retreat, I am reminded of the healing power of love, laughter, and quality time spent with loved ones. Sometimes, amidst life's chaos, all we need is a moment of respite in the embrace of family to restore our spirits and nourish our souls.

Embracing the Good Tired

Finding Gratitude in Exhaustion

There’s a unique kind of exhaustion that comes from a weekend filled with family, laughter, and joy. It’s the kind of tiredness that settles deep into your bones but brings with it a sense of fulfillment and warmth. Yet, when that good tired feeling collides with the weariness of a long day at work, it can leave you feeling utterly drained.

Yesterday was one of those days for me. A marathon board meeting stretched from mid-afternoon well into the evening, leaving me physically and mentally spent. As I finally left the office, the fatigue weighed heavily on me, casting a shadow over any plans I had for the evening.

Knowing I lacked the energy to cook a healthy meal, I made a pit stop at Oreganos, where I found solace in a hearty dinner and a glass of wine at the bar. Amidst the clatter of plates and murmurs of conversations, a call from my best friend provided a welcome reprieve. Even in the midst of exhaustion, those moments of connection are like gentle reminders of the love and support that surround us.

Home at last, I traded business attire for cozy pajamas, sinking into the familiar comfort of my couch. With a few mindless shows playing in the background, I let the day's stress melt away, surrendering to the embrace of sleep by 9:00 PM.

This morning, as I reluctantly peeled myself from the warmth of my bed, every muscle protested with soreness, and the weight of fatigue lingered. Yet, despite the heaviness of exhaustion, there was a quiet resilience within me. Each day brings its challenges, but as I reflect on the cherished moments of the weekend past, I find myself buoyed by gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose.

It’s moments like these that remind us of the beauty in life's ebb and flow. Yes, there will be days when exhaustion threatens to consume us, when the demands of work leave us feeling drained to our very core. But intertwined with those challenges are moments of laughter, connection, and love that sustain us through even the toughest of times.

So, as I prepare to face another day of work, I do so with a heart filled with gratitude for the weekends that recharge my spirit and the resilience that allows me to press on, one step at a time. For in the midst of exhaustion lies the beauty of being alive, of experiencing the full spectrum of emotions, and of finding joy even in the weariness of it all.

Joy in February Moments

Finding Joy in February Moments

February has been a month of simple pleasures and cherished moments. 

Finishing a book brought a sense of accomplishment, and I've relished the quiet pause before starting a new literary adventure. My kitchen counter has become a canvas for seasonal decorations, like the Valentine's Day arrangement that added a touch of charm to my home.

Valentine's Day was a celebration of self-love, marked by cozy indulgence with wine, chocolate cake, and a feel-good movie. Now, as I prepare to celebrate my son's 24th birthday and look forward to my daughter's bridal shower, I'm reminded of the joy found in moments shared with loved ones.

In embracing the present, I've discovered that life's beauty lies in the simplicity of everyday experiences. As February comes to a close, I eagerly anticipate the opportunities for growth, creativity, and connection that lie ahead.

My ex-husband Scott surprised me with a treat for Valentine's Day! It was very thoughtful and yummy!

My cozy Valentine's evening

A Journey of Renewal: Nurturing My Relationship with Jesus

As I drove into work this morning, the sky painted a breathtaking canvas of deep orange melting into a soft pink, signaling the birth of a new day. With worship music filling the air, I found myself enveloped in a sense of tranquility, setting the tone for a day filled with positivity and renewal.

Amidst this serenity, a thought struck me like a gentle whisper: "I do not want to let anyone come between me and my relationship with Jesus." It was a realization tinged with both sadness and determination. I reflected on how, despite my efforts to maintain a connection with the Lord, I often found myself navigating life's challenges without fully leaning on Him, leaving me feeling weary and drained.

But in that moment, a newfound clarity emerged—I yearned to deepen my relationship with Jesus, to surrender myself fully to His guidance and grace. And so, I embarked on a journey of spiritual renewal, guided by a desire to reclaim the profound sense of peace and purpose that comes from walking alongside Him.

One of the first steps I took was returning to church, guided by the gentle encouragement of a friend from work. The moment I stepped through the doors, I felt a sense of belonging and renewal wash over me. Though I've only attended twice, each visit leaves me feeling refreshed, invigorated, and filled with a newfound sense of excitement.

Reconnecting with my faith has been a profound experience—one that has reignited my spirit and filled me with a sense of purpose. Through prayer, worship, and fellowship with fellow believers, I am rediscovering the joy of walking hand in hand with Jesus, allowing His love to illuminate every aspect of my life.

As I continue on this journey of spiritual renewal, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to deepen my relationship with Jesus. With each step forward, I am reminded that His love is a beacon of hope, guiding me through life's twists and turns with unwavering grace and compassion.

In the embrace of His love, I find solace, strength, and the courage to embrace each new day with a heart full of faith and gratitude. And as I look to the future, I do so with renewed conviction, knowing that with Jesus by my side, I am never alone.

Embracing new beginnings

 A Journey of Healing and Self-Discovery

Life is a series of chapters, each one marked by moments of joy, sorrow, and profound change. As we navigate the twists and turns of our journey, we inevitably encounter times when the familiar path gives way to the unknown, forcing us to summon the courage to begin again.

For me, the past year has been a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. Last July, my world was shattered when my long-term relationship with Ben came to an abrupt and unexpected end. Six years of shared dreams and cherished memories crumbled before my eyes, leaving me grappling with heartache and uncertainty.

In the aftermath of our breakup, I found myself confronting the daunting prospect of starting anew at 50, alone and unsure of what the future held. The road ahead seemed insurmountable, and the weight of my newfound solitude felt suffocating. I wondered how I would find the strength to rebuild my life from the ground up, how I would afford to pay rent and navigate the challenges of living independently once more.

Yet, in the midst of my darkest hour, I discovered that I was not alone. With unwavering love and support, my brother and his wife extended a helping hand, offering me a lifeline when I needed it most. With their assistance, I found the courage to take the first steps toward reclaiming my independence, moving into my own place last September.

The journey since then has been one of profound transformation and self-discovery. Though the road has been fraught with emotional upheaval and moments of doubt, I have persisted, drawing strength from the resilience within me and the unwavering support of loved ones. Each day brings new opportunities for growth and healing, as I gradually piece together the fragments of my shattered heart and embrace the beauty of newfound independence.

As I reflect on the journey that has brought me to this moment, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the resilience that resides within me and the boundless capacity for growth and renewal that exists within us all. Though the path forward may be uncertain, I am filled with a renewed sense of hope and determination to embrace whatever lies ahead with courage and grace.

In the end, it is not the trials we face or the obstacles we overcome that define us, but rather the strength and resilience with which we rise to meet them. And so, as I stand on the precipice of a new beginning, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit emboldened by the knowledge that, no matter what challenges may come my way, I possess within me, only with the help of the Lord, the power to forge my own path and create a life filled with love, joy, and endless possibility.

Quick Highlights of 2022

Sara is in an awesome relationship with Daniel.  They are such a cute couple!

Sara graduated from Aesthetician School!

September of 2022 my brother and his wife Bea came to visit the family in Eager at Mom's house.  It was such a good visit.  I hadn't seen my brother since our dad died back in 2015

Turquoisebrush! My painting business and passion!

I love Spring/Summer out in Parks.  I love planting new flowers to enjoy every year sitting outside on the back porch.

 

2021 highlights

10/13/2023 I know its been a couple of years since I've blogged.  I've decided to start back up again. I know a lot goes on in a year but here are three pictures that represent a couple of the big things of the year of 2021.

Ben & I went on a trip to Oklahoma and Arkansas.  He went for a family reunion.  It was so much traveling with him. The trip was amazing!

My oldest, my beautiful Karlee graduated from NAU

We celebrated Kyle's 21st birthday!