In another universe

This space holds various purposes....a place to jot down a quote I want to remember.  Share a picture from a memorable time.   Put words to feelings.   Journal about a period of my life.  Post an inspiring photo.  That's why this morning I was nearly frozen when I looked at my hotel room in Copenhagen - S downstairs at a meeting, Joe happy with his beautiful loving paternal family for vacation, and me - able to do a job I enjoy from anywhere I'd like to do it, traveling with someone I love, in a beautiful place - but what was in front of me was a picture nearly the same as something I had posted right here on this blog in 2011.   A perfect reminder to pause with full gratitude for making dreams come true.   Thank you, thank you, thank you. 

From my blog in 2011....

From today in my hotel room.... 

Have had this art print saved for awhile.  "In another universe, I am dreaming of this life right here" - Amanda Jones, Australian artist.  

James Clear

 Loving what he's got to say; bookmarking here for future reference. 

"Don't spend too much time around someone whose primary way of engaging with life is as a martyr.  When suffering becomes your identity, you only see the hard parts of life"  

Prayer for volunteers

 This was shared at the Villanova volunteer weekend I joined in May.   Sharing it here to easily retrieve it. 

Prayer for Alumni Volunteer Leaders
Inspired by St. Augustine

 

Gracious and loving God,
You have made us for Yourself, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You.
We thank You for gathering us here as alumni, united not only by shared experiences but by a shared calling to serve.

Guide us, Lord, with the wisdom of Your Spirit.
Let our work be rooted in humility, inspired by love, and directed toward the common good.
May we give generously of our time and talents,
remembering that in giving, we receive—
and in serving others, we come closer to You.

Bless our efforts, strengthen our unity, and lead us always in Your truth.
Amen.

 

Shakira!

 On a complete whim, last weekend we headed to Miami.  We had airline credits that would expire and J is spending quality time with his grandparents in Rio.   While there, a guy in the hotel elevator asked if we were there to see Shakira....   nooooo.....  but should we be??!!   I immediately went on Stubhub and got some last minute seats!   I have wanted to see her perform since I saw her Superbowl show with J-Lo a few years ago.    and Shakira, in Miami, is like seeing a team on the home field!  

As always, S was happy to go along with a plan.  It is not lost on me how lucky I am to have a partner so willing to always say an enthusiastic, YES.   So, we went to Zara, I got a fun dress to wear and we danced the night away.   I never want to forget the beautiful evening!  

Cliff House - Cape Neddick

Took S away for a quick trip to the Cliff House in Cape Neddick.   A stunning property that we haven't visited for a few years.  Amazing nature just a short trip from home.  Happy birthday to my favorite guy!