 As I recall the gifts of summertime, I was reminded of a fitting quote by Sarah Dessen where she reminds us to remember when the summer days "were long, stretching into each other...out of school, everything was on pause and yet happening at the same time, this collection of weeks when anything was possible." So with summer in mind, let's take a journey where we turn up the volume and imagine sinking our feet into the warm white sand and feeling the sunshine all around us! Together, let's take a journey while we sink our feet into the warm white sand, turn up the volume and feel the sunshine all around us. For full effect, please watch Michael Franti & Spearhead's video "The Sound of Sunshine" and stay to the end because it's guaranteed to bring you those awesome summer vibes! Remember when we waited all year long for summer? As youngsters, it was as if we could make each day stretch into more time to dream, play, explore, discover and be lazy without regret. I know that I could hardly wait for afternoons running to the Wham-O Slip N' Slide on the cool grass, the musical ice cream truck, the warmth of the sand between my toes, saltwater on my tender pink skin, sleepovers, camping trips and daily dives in our freshwater pool. Remember when you didn't want to fall asleep each night for fear you might miss something? When every day of summer was to be savored and not forgotten. As youngsters, we innately knew the benefits of play, relaxation, curiosity, joy and presence. Now, my friends, we no longer have to wait for summer. It rushes ever so swiftly to us, inviting us to reawaken the child within through the gifts of presence, play and relaxation. Let this summer invite you to savor some slowness, make space for idle time and more of the things that bring you joy. Allow yourself to follow your curiosity and the endless possibilities for creativity! All too often, we let the daily distractions of life interfere and, in doing so, give up what it is we need the most – the time to reclaim our inner peace and well-being and to define outer expectations and responsibilities in the world on the one hand and balance our internal needs for space and personal expression on the other. I invite you to take a moment and lift your spirit to "The Sound of Sunshine" and to savor your favorite summer memories. Recall as far back in the past as you like and review what you were doing, who you were with and what brought you the most joy. Then I encourage you to remind your current self that anything is possible in this collection of weeks if only you are fully present for it. Thank you for the reminder Sarah Dessen!  I'm HOME living in the first house I purchased with my then-husband many years ago. I'll always remember the day we found it – feeling the excitement of a dream as I climbed the steps to peek through the window of the front door, seeing the bright brick fireplace for the first time, the gentle mist of sea air surrounding me, and the feeling that this was home.
Even though it feels like a lifetime ago, the feeling remains the same. A deep inner joy and satisfaction in turning a house into a home with things I love that nurture and support me. Home is a symbol of the love that continually protects and surrounds us, nurtures us and allows us to be. What excites me the most is bringing my space alive to reflect the woman I am today. I am inspired to honor all the parts of her, all the places she's lived and explored, the people she has met, who she was, and who she is becoming. If you read my last email, I talked about the way we emerge from one stage in life to the next. I am in a new phase in my becoming, and re-creating the space around me is an affirmation of what matters most to me, what I have brought with me, creating space for what I'm inviting in more of, and remembering that the home of my dreams dwells within. A big part of this process is getting rid of most of my belongings. Over the years, our needs change, and the desire to simplify is palpable. As I watched the men dismantle the daybed and drive off with it, I was surprised by a bit of nostalgia. I've thought a lot about things and their place in our lives. After all, they are only things. I thought about how and why I would have an attachment to the furniture I bought so many years ago. The truth is that the daybed held sunlit afternoons close as a respite from the world, a sense of untouchable tranquility. It held visits from far-away friends. The trundle was perfect for my precious young nieces and nephews, reading, storytelling, trampoline and somersaults. And the feeling I got seeing the daybed elegantly placed in our guest room. It's not the item or piece of furniture; it's how it made me feel and the memories I will keep of beloved guests in my home that will remain with me forever. The furniture is gone, but the memories will live on. What's next to let go of? I think it will be the glass-top dining table with carved pedestal legs and upholstered side chairs. When I chose it, I thought it was the most beautiful, elegant dining set I'd ever seen. Will I wax nostalgic? You betcha! Memories of all the celebrated birthdays, candle-lit anniversaries, dinner parties, Thanksgiving dinners, my father's book signing, wine tastings and everyday enjoyment. I am once again reminded of the preciousness of life in each moment through the lens of time. As I clip pictures, explore ideas and become obsessed with Pinterest, I am reminded of limitless possibilities in creating a new vision filled with purpose, possibility and loving protection. A house is built of wood and beams. My heart is full as I make a home of love and dreams! Is there a place in your home that reflects you – your present visions and dreams? If you don’t have a particular place, I hope this message inspires you to create one and that it supports you in remembering that the home of your dreams dwells within... |
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