I had a wonderful week as I celebrated my 57th birthday - I'm not afraid to say my age or of aging. I earned every one of my white hairs. I made plenty of mistakes along the way, but the wisdom I learned and experiences I had made me the person I am today. No worries as I won't bore you with those lessons in wisdom today. I do encourage you to think of your life as lessons in wisdom and see if that changes your perspective. I spent most of the week either exercising or sharing meals with friends - what a great way to spend time. I received gorgeous flowers and when I walk into the dining room/kitchen are of the house the scent is wonderful. How do you look at birthdays?
As I have written previously as an introvert, large social gatherings can be both exhilarating and exhausting. I attended a celebratory coaching event and it was wonderful. The one thing you have to know about coaching events is that there are lots of hugs and you feel love energy all around you. To be honest, sometimes it's a bit overwhelming. In many ways, I envy those that can work the room and can still feel genuine. Believe me, I found my corner (so to speak) and stayed in place - turned out to be a great spot as it was close to the speakers and I saw more people this way. Overall, It was great to connect with several people I have not seen in a while with all of my traveling. The event recognized many authors that we have in our chapter - I believe they said there were 28 authors and they brought books for a raffle. I did not win any of the books, but I did obtain a list of the books and authors so you know I'll be doing some research and reading. How do you handle large crowds of people? Do you absorb the energy of the room or does it overwhelm you? Would love to hear about coping techniques?
As I walked across the parking garage I heard my name called and I turned to see a friend/coach who I have not seen in a couple of years. We went through coaching courses together and partnered on a few projects. It was so great catching up with her - she gave me a copy of her book and I must say it is insightful and encouraging guidance. The author/book: Toni McGillen - "In The Meantime" A care guide for women facing a combative divorce. What are you reading?
I still have not contacted my hairdresser and I leave in a week. I hope she can squeeze me in sometime this coming week. I might have to do some bribing or something as time has completely gotten away from me. I can't believe we are already headed toward the end of May.
This is Memorial Day weekend. Please remember that it is not about the sales or the unofficial start of summer. When I think about the meaning behind this holiday I remember all those in my family who have served or are serving - too many to mention here. My flag is proudly flying. There are many motorcyclists around here this weekend as they participate in Rolling Thunder. I love to see them as they drive by with their flags flying. I do not go to Washington DC to see the entire formation as the noise would be a bit overwhelming for me, but perhaps one day I'll head down there. My father has been asked to participate in the ceremonies where they live as the group found out he served for close to 40 years between active and reserve duty in the Marines and Army/National Guard. My father has never hidden that he served, but he has never really talked about his experiences with us - I think it's because we are his daughters and not sons. He is of the generation/mindset that it's his job to protect his girls and he absolutely refused to let me go into the service. He served in Korea and has not been to see many of the newer memorials in Washington DC as he does not travel much. As I write this, I thought of the Freedom Honor Flights so I'm going to look into this program as I think he fits the criteria. Perhaps if he won't travel with me, he will at least travel with other veterans. Please take a moment or two to stop and remember veterans past and present.
I am going to end it here today. I can't believe it's only 8:15 am and I have written two blogs - off to read the Sunday paper and finish my coffee. I hope you find something that you can relate to in the above. Enjoy your week. Chat soon. Marie
"There is no love without forgiveness, and there is no forgiveness without love." ~Bryant H. McGill
"Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you’ve imagined."~Henry David Thoreau
"Let go. Why do you cling to pain? There is nothing you can do about the wrongs of yesterday. It is not yours to judge. Why hold on to the very thing which keeps you from hope and love?" ~Leo Buscaglia
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