I sat on the cedar dock still full of fragrance, waiting for day to arrive. Loons bob along in the water, eagles perch in the tree beside me watching over their home and commenting on its beauty. Another morning was spent face-down on the dock watching fish swim in the shadows, noticing deer prints on … Continue reading Restoration of a Summer Day
I found myself wandering in a building. While I didn’t see anyone else, I knew there were others with me. The doors appeared locked, as if I was in jail; so I stayed in this place, day after day. No one left, because we believed we couldn’t. Have you ever had a recurring … Continue reading Behind the Locked Door
Having lived in the Northwest area of town on and off for about 40 years, I know the roads pretty well. When we first moved to the area in the early 70’s, Hwy 169 (then County Road 18) was a dirt road. Living just east of 169, we were the last line of residential homes … Continue reading Riding down Hwy 169
Sounds like a news headline. Instead it is a reminder I gleaned from an argument, one brought on by pain: physical, emotional, spiritual. I watched, I listened and as observer was able to see without a cloud of emotions dimming my view. On the surface Christine made a request to her husband Ralph. This request … Continue reading Accusation answered with defensiveness always fuels tension.
The weekend weather lent itself to two full days of working in the yard. Starting each morning, early before the heat arrived, the constant breeze enticed me to stay the day. I am most often aware of how blessed I am when in nature, and that certainly includes the yard – even with the weeds. … Continue reading Phantom
When I drive back into Mn from the south, the first time I acknowledge nearing home is at the "Welcome to Minnesota" sign at the Iowa border. I think I begin to breath a bit differently. The second time is when I cross into Lakeville. To me, Lakeville along with the cityscapes of the Burnsville … Continue reading Gift on 35W
Last week a drinking glass took a tumble off the counter and on to the floor. A day later, I noticed a chip in my most often used coffee mug. The next day it was in the garbage can with the handle broken off. As I washed dishes this weekend, I pulled out of the … Continue reading Peace of Broken Glass
Over the last few week I have heard the new spring sounds of my neighborhood. The pond frogs have awakened from their winter nap and started evening serenades. Migrating birds are announcing their return from winter havens, others have begun their spring songs. Meanwhile the pileated woodpecker continues his hammering for lunch. While winter can … Continue reading Revitalizing Quiet
Resiliency tip for the week: Take a deep breath and ask one more question A simple conversation, not about anything in particular - a comment was voiced about something I had said. My gut twisted, I thought, “what?” “Wait, huh??” My neck tightened, a knot developed in my throat, my face felt hot: all in … Continue reading Ask one more question.
I wanted to bring another voice into our conversation on resilience. Tara Brach, Pd.D. is a psychologist, author and teacher. Please find attached her article on feeling overwhelmed. Her writings and podcasts can be found at: http://www.mindful.org/tara-brach-rain-mindfulness-practice/ I don’t know about you, but I can be my worst critic. Over the years I have found … Continue reading Invite Rain
Andrea Tatley 