Celebrating the Week

Thank you to Ruth Ayres for providing this space to share our celebrations.  I've been away for awhile because I was too "busy," but it didn't take long for me to realize how important this practice is.  It's too easy to get bogged down in what isn't going right, and I need to stay focused on the positive.  So, I'm glad to be back and will make sure that I return each week to celebrate with others.  Please check Ruth's site to visit other celebrations.

I'm looking forward to going to the airport this evening to meet our exchange daughter's mom.  Chanju arrived in Columbus in the middle of August, which means her mom hasn't been able to give her a hug for 10 months.  I remember what I was feeling last year at this time as we navigated through the Turkish airport.  I couldn't wait to wrap my arms around Annie.  I wasn't sure I'd ever let go.  I'm so excited for Chanju's mom, Miyeon, to have the same experience with Chanju.  I'm pretty sure that "mom's need for a hug" is universal.  We'll have 3 days to spend together before the two of them leave for a visit to DC and New York and then back home where Chanju will be reunited with her father and the rest of the family.


Our oldest daughter set off for her new job in DC this week.  I am so happy for her.  She's worked hard and it is paying off.  It's such a good feeling to see your children be successful and happy.


  Mom's had a bit of a set back and it's been too easy to fall into my typical worry mode.  Even though we all wish she was feeling better, there are many things to celebrate.  First and most important, my dad has been WONDERFUL!  My dad was a pretty traditional dad when I was growing up...home from work expecting dinner on the table, he did the outside work, Mom took care of the kids and did all the cooking and cleaning.  Well, he is doing it all right now and being very patient and nurturing.  I'm also glad that my time is more flexible right now.  I'll be headed back up north next week to hang out with Mom and Dad.  Mom and I can drink tea and chat, while Dad makes dinner for both of us.  :)  (Just kidding...I can give Dad a break too).

I celebrate time to work in my garden.  Gardening is therapeutic for me and I've so enjoyed digging in the dirt this week.  I have to say my garden looks the best it's looked for several years.  I even have some hope that I'll be able to keep at it this summer.

Last but not least, I'm doing a happy dance this afternoon.  I finished the draft for my chapter of the book I'm contributing to and turned it in for peer review.  As you can see from the above photo, I had a beautiful spot for working.  I've had so much fun writing and have appreciated the support from Troy Hicks and the other wonderful teachers in our group.  Now that this part of the project is over, I've got some time to think about new writing projects and do a better job of posting on my blog.

I hope all of you find many things to celebrate this upcoming week.  Enjoy!