Lessons from Lyrics

Just in the last few weeks my son, Ren, has changed the songs he asks for at night...and his choices have definitely given me something to think about...

First song he always asks for is Bobby McFerrin's "Don't worry, Be happy". Always a good lesson, and most people could use a reminding every now and then.  I definitely need a constant reminder to worry less, play more. Luckily I have that in my kids.
Tonight I pledge to try and worry less...

The next song he asks for is "Let It Go" from Disney's Frozen. To me this song is a reminder to basically..let it go...stop trying to be something I'm not, stop trying to please everybody, just stop. Let it go, be true to yourself and your soul...
Tonight I pledge to try and be more true to my inner self...

The next song is "A Dream is a Wish your Heart Makes" from Cinderella. A pleasant reminder to follow your dreams, follow where they take you, and trust that you can make your dreams come true...
Tonight I pledge to try and follow my dreams...

Well, I have decided to pledge a lot, but notice I used the word try...I can try. I will try. I might stumble and stutter along the way, but I will get up and try again..plus I have two cuties to cheer me on. My favorite quote has always been from Mahatma Gandhi "Be the change you wish to see in the world". It has always called to me...tonight I know why. I want to see a world with less worry and more joy. I want to see a world where people can be true to themselves without fear of ridicule or judgement. I want to see a world where my children can follow their dreams, because they believe. I can be the change, but as Michael put it..I'm startin' with the man in the mirror...I am going to be that change. I may not be able to change THE world, but I sure as hell can change MY world.

Thanks Ren...you and Abby are my biggest teachers. Teach on little ones, teach on...I hope I teach you well

New Year, New Goal

2013 has come and gone, and it was quite the adventure.  Some days it felt like an uphill battle, others like a stroll through the meadow. But our "Mountain of a Year" had more peaks than valleys, including the addition of Abigail Anne to our family, Scott's graduation from his masters program, and a big ol move across the ocean, and a life-changing trip to Africa...just to name a few.

 Through it all one of the biggest life reminders brought back into focus is the importance of surrounding yourself with those who support, love, and cherish you. I have been blessed to have such a network in my life that spans, currently, across continents. I have been, and AM, blessed. In 2014 my goal is to connect and reconnect with those near and far. I am blessed to have everyone in my life, and it is time to let them know how special they make me feel each and every day. I plan to write to those I know, be open to those I do not yet know, smile at strangers, and live each day with a little gratitude in my heart...Happy New Year! May it be filled with love, peace, joy, and laughter. Spread the love this year...