Definition of a true friend

In conversation today with a friend I was blessed enough to visit with, we discussed how a friend was really someone who feeds our soul.

I've recently lost one of those people in my life, and he didn't just feed my soul, but many others. He was one of the kindest and most generous people I know. He was regular to this blog. He is very missed.

At his memorial, my little one felt the need to speak and let people know her heart. This sweet little one, stood before a large group of strangers and friend to tell them, "I need to say something." She took a breath and clearly spoke, " Roger... he was my friend."

He was mine too, and the friend of so many others.

And as we sat and chatted about friendship, I realized, that for her and I, friends are the ones who feed your soul. I agree, and for me, mine make my heart sing as well. They are the people I feel safe with. The ones who are there for you fully and wholly, accepting you and loving you as you are. They've "got your back" and you have theirs.

I think that for each person, the definition of friendship is different. But the people who are your friends, probably have very similar definitions.

You can be friendly with many people. But you really only are friends with a select few.

Isn't it just the most glorious day?

These were the words my eldest greeted me with this morning. Every day, she announces that it's the most wonderful, or the best day. Today, she announced, was a glorious day.

And do you know what? At the end of the day, she says the same thing.

Now, we do have moments when she claims "this is not a good moment". And, I think we had a "this is the worst day ever!" once or twice, but by bed time? It had been a wonderful day.

This child is such a complete gift in my life. She enriches it in so many ways, and she is such a great teacher.

Just think about it - what if each day really could be glorious, or the best day ever?

This spoke to me today...

"Don't ask what the world needs; don't ask what others think you should be doing with your life. Instead, ask yourself what makes you come alive--because, more than anything else, what the world truly needs are men and women who have come alive."

- Dr. Wayne Dyer

Today I remember...

A friend who was a part of our family, and so very dear and precious to us.

Today, I grieve because he is no longer with me physically.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQ3wpjdYMqk

R - I miss you. I am so grateful for your presence in our lives, and to have been blessed by your friendship. You have been such a huge part of my children's lives, and my own.

My new favorite quote

“This is my wish for you: Comfort on difficult days, smiles when sadness intrudes, rainbows to follow the clouds, laughter to kiss your lips, sunsets to warm your heart, hugs when spirits sag, beauty for your eyes to see, friendships to brighten your being, faith so that you can believe, confidence for when you doubt, courage to know yourself, patience to accept the truth, Love to complete your life.” - Unknown

Happy Birthday my sweet Chicadee-dee-dee!

Today, you are 7, and you are so excited that you are 7. In the last year I've caught glimpses of you transitioning from child to little lady. You are both, and now and then there are sweet glimpses of each.

I can still remember the day that you were born. It was sunny and warm. We had the check up with the midwife, and I was good to go. I remember the strength of our midwife, the serene peace that she radiated, and her quiet strength and encouragement. I remember Daddy sitting behind me in the tub, supporting me as I pushed you out. I remember seeing you for the first time, holding you to my chest, and singing "Sat nam" to you, and the quietness that followed in the room.

Last night, as I stayed up late decorating the house with streamers (because I knew that you loved them), writing your card, and putting together your birthday books, I held you in my heart.

You have been such an incredible light in my life. Every day you amaze me with your stories, your thoughts, your presence, your essence. Your smile is a light in the darkness. Your hugs and your touch the greatest treasure.

My hear overflows with gratitude for you my now sweet 7YO. I adore you. I love you. I treasure you. You are such an amazing blessing in my life. Happy, happy birthday my love!

A day of perfect moments...

The day started with some quiet morning exercise and getting ahead on work.

Catching the kiddos reading side-by-side on the couch.

We spent a good hour or two outside on the swing - reading, playing animals, and making the swing into a huge tent.

After lunch we headed into town to spend time with a friend.

Discovering the power of a hug, pure love, holding a hand, and whispering the words, "I love you."

Being told that bringing your children for a visit was "Simply marvelous" and that the visit was truly "lovely" and basking in that person's gratitude as a result.

Being fully, totally, breathtakingly aware of the power of friendship and the simple gift of a stone with a few powerful words written on it.

Holding on to precious moments enough to make them blessed and sacred memories... then having to let go.

A spontaneous outdoor picnic with bouncing and giggling kids.

Witnessing the compassion and depths that each of my young children contain. Still amazes me.

Feeling gratitude for the simple gifts of books to my child.

Tenderly carrying two sleeping luvs into the house.

Coming home to a hug and kiss from the hubby.

Holding my family close... and remembering.