enjoying the very last bits of vacation time around here. the reality of it sounds more like this: two little boys yelling, laughing and tearing through the house leaving a trail of toys and whatnot behind them until one ends up in tears for whatever reasons. then repeat...only with more volume and greater momentum. voices become raised (even though i sooo wish they didn't), tempers grow shorter....and then ryder out of the clear blue looks up at me and says, "Ommmmmmm".

what's a mama to do? in that moment, i melt. all frustrations fade away and i am reminded of the wisdom our children can hold (even if they are only trying to crack me up for a moment...that's a big lesson). he does this, ryder. he says "Om" at the perfect moments, completely in context to a chaotic or frustrating situation - albeit at home or out in public. he doesn't make a production of it, doesn't call attention to himself, it's merely a subtle reminder, and it gets me every time. 

let's step into this new year with some inspiration, shall we?

this story and sculpture is wonderful - take a moment and read, please!

i am so taken with her beautifully crafted words

this one has made the rounds, but i seem to watch it every time - such a powerful reminder

she is such a bright light, loved listening to her speak

this one is pure inspiration

i love this quiet time between christmas and new years. for me, it's a time of reflection and renewal. time to take a look back, to dream forward, but also find some simple stillness within the present moment. the rush has settled, yet the bustle of school and schedules has not yet begun and there is this real sense of peace and quiet that these days bring. it is such a gift and i am grateful for it all. 

i have decided on my word to guide 2012, it is, express. inspired deeply by some events this past year that broke my heart wide open a bit more, it feels all the more important, fitting, and precious.

2011, my word was gratitude and i feel she stayed with me, close at hand - close to my heart, all year long, whispering gentle reminders when i became lost in the whirlwind of the everyday. her whispers grounded me back to the present and allowed for space to appreciate - even if it was only momentary. she taught me a lot ... reminded me of a lot this year and for that i am grateful.  i hope to hold on to all that she brought me this year.

a heartfelt thank you to each of you for sharing this space with me, accompanying me on my journey, taking the time to pen comments of support, encouragement, well-wishes or shared stories.

wishing you buon anno and may 2012 be the fullest expression of you!