Henry was engrossed in a gripping James Patterson novel when his heart jumped a beat. The second episode this week. It skipped again. He called his daughter in the kitchen, and her fingers found the buttons on her cell for emergency. The sun was setting on this Friday when paramedics arrived. Henry was soon x-rayed. Linda called her older sister, and they learned from Dr. Roberts that their elderly dad’s heart was giving up. They knew their parents would soon be reunited. Monday morning, their loving father took his last breath. He would once again dance with his sweetheart.
We don’t live forever, I know this, just as sunlight and moonbeams can’t shine simultaneously, but sometimes I feel like he and I will transcend the inevitable. Imagining the opposite is unimaginable because it means one of us will be left alone with our tears to sweep up the shattered pieces of our hearts in every room we step into. It means going solo through every sunrise, every sunset.
It’s okay to daydream, isn’t it?
It’s alright to feel we’ll live forever, isn’t it?
What is life without dreams, without fantasy?
Reality hides in the shadows, I know this, but until life changes, I’ll live in my fantasy, knowing he’ll be beside me eternally.
Yesterday was going to be a hot one, so hubby suggested we drive into Sausalito and visit this cute little beach. The weather was cooler by the bay, and the sky was the bluest it’s ever been. We walked around, enjoying the sights, and of course, our coffee. Then some thoughts came to mind and landed in the form of Shadorma poems…
Escaping hot temperatures we find a quiet beach sights offer tranquility breathing in salt air
Boats on the bay, stoic in their beauty a lifestyle inviting surrounded by calm water waiting to take sail
Sitting on the sand, toes buried we people watch, little boy giggles from water joy paddle boarders learn
Owning this moment of stillness together he and I new memory to create over and over
Cheers! Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you enjoyed. Have a lovely week ahead! 💦💙🩵☕️
This is a first for me! It’s 4:00 am and I can’t sleep! A billion thoughts swirl around in my mind and I toss and turn more times than clothes in a dryer! Hubby sleeps like a baby. Go figure! The decision is made to get out of bed. Why not? If we were on the east coast, we’d be enjoying coffee already. So, Good morning! The good thing is that today is Friday, the end of the work week.
A quick foot update, I’ve been pain-free for a week now, most likely from all your love, support, and positivity. I like the sound of that, don’t you? I still kind of hold my breath each day not knowing if a jolt will come. But it’s a miracle that I’ve jotted down a zero in my pain diary for 8 days straight. I did get a second opinion, and the doctor was very nice. He actually concurred with the other doctor’s diagnosis: neuritis or plantar fasciitis. It could be from wearing unsupportive shoes (though comfy) over the years along with aging, that the heel nerve became agitated. But I think I’m on the mend (knock on wood). I hope I’m on the mend. Will the pain return? I don’t know. But I’ve made modifications, so only time will tell. And I have your suggestions for if the pain worsens. In the meantime, I’m living life, gradually getting back into my walking routine. Thanks again for ‘being there.’ 🙏🏻🩷
Anyway, I’m leaving you with a poem to calm your mind…
Do you need rest, solitude for your heart and mind? Accept it, don’t be shy to admit a fraction of you needs only to hear silence. Let stillness enfold you in its calming embrace where the depths of your thoughts can flourish from their lingering state.
Today I’m sharing my 5-star reviews for three wonderful, entertaining books. Hope you enjoy!
In the Tree’s Shadows by D.L. Finn
In the Tree’s Shadow by D. L. Finn is a captivating collection of short stories in a mix of genres, varying from 99 words to novella length. Finn takes the reader on a thrilling ride of paranormal, horror, sci-fi – even romance and fantasy. And her love of the outdoors is apparent as nature is woven into many tales. The worlds she creates are exceptional, showcasing authentic humans and dialogue. I even found the creatures and aliens to be convincing.
The Wow Factor began from the beginning and continued to the end. Some stories are moving and endearing, a few made me turn on more lights, while others made me stop and think. But they are all entertaining.
The collection begins with “End of the Road,” in which the main character is tired of living, but then the storyline shifts. A powerful introduction to Finn’s storytelling that had me intrigued. I enjoyed “A Reminder” since I’m also a nature enthusiast. “This Journey” speaks of a lost loved one, special memories, and how two people will reunite in another life. All dog lovers will be drawn to “The Bench.”
A few favorites that made me wish for daylight are “When the Lights Go Out,” “In that Moment,” and “The Day the Ground Moved.” “The Playdate” was beyond creepy. “In the Shadows” reminded me never to walk alone in the wilderness because the crackling of leaves could truly mean something sinister.
Whatever genre you’re in the mood for, this collection has a story for you. I don’t usually read horror, paranormal, or sci-fi, but I finished this book in one sitting. I couldn’t put it down. You can savor it, though, and take your time, extending the thrilling ride. I’ll add that this is the first book I’ve read by D. L. Finn, and I know it won’t be the last. I truly enjoyed her writing and imagination. Highly recommended for all fiction readers!
Re-Create and Celebrate by Cindy Georgakas
Do you ever carry self-doubt around? Are you a people-pleaser? Are you still trying to figure out your life? If you answer yes to these questions, then Re-Create & Celebrate by Cindy Georgakas is the book for you. I’ve been following Cindy’s blog for a while now, and have grown to admire the caring, vibrant, woman she is. So, I couldn’t wait to read her debut book. I would be hard-pressed to believe that everyone has their life figured out to a tee, no need to ask questions or ponder mysteries. In some ways, I do, but in others, I’m still searching as I bet you are, too.
Georgakas shares her suggestions and knowledge drawn from her experience of being a life coach, and the language she uses is down to earth. She is not shy when it comes to showing her vulnerability. She is simply like you and me, trying to live life to its fullest. The book is organized into 7 Steps To Turn Your Dreams Into Reality, and she ends each chapter with a powerful haiku. Here is a sample…
stay grounded in self listen with all your senses open to insight
Georgakas nudges you into delving deep within your soul to discover your true essence, and then to unearth your true purpose. We all know how powerful negative thoughts can be, and how easily they can push us in the wrong direction. As Georgakas says, “…we can’t let the mind take over, since it is designed to overanalyze and judge everything we do.”
As I’m not in my thirties or forties anymore, this quote rang true, “Every age and stage offers new insights and opportunities to adapt and change; we have never been at this place in our lives before, so it’s important to pause and ask, “Who am I now, and what is my purpose?”
Another question to ponder is, “What life is worth living that is not worth questioning?” And this line stood out, “We have a choice to either paint rainbows or black clouds on our blank canvas.” Georgakas sprinkles many nuggets of wisdom from start to finish, so this compilation of encouragement is a great reminder that can be referred to over and over again.
Re-Create & Celebrate is an empowering book to reiterate how crucial self-love is, how to realize our goals and achieve them, and to enhance personal growth. Highly recommended for all who are still seeking those awaited answers!
Fairies, Myths, and Magic by Colleen M. Chesebro
This book is an enchanting collection of engaging prose and poetry about fairies, myths, and magic. Chesebro’s imagination and vivid imagery filled me with wonder as I turned each page. I felt like I had stepped into the scenes to interact with the delightful characters. Chesebro begins with a celebration of the inspiration of summer solstice, and then she introduces fairies with some fascinating facts.
The poems take on many forms, such as free verse and various styles of syllabic poetry. Regardless, Chesebro adds her special magic when she weaves words together. Below is a lovely example:
“Fairy Magic”
When browsing through memories swirling within your mind, Most people often find – Magic is the least understood of the fairytale arts. Fear not! Look deep into your soul – To remember a time When enchantment explained your world, First seen through the eyes of a child.
I had the pleasure of meeting two adorable pixies and laughing at their shenanigans, but I loved the heartwarming ending. I was introduced to a kind little fairy who yearns for his love to be reciprocated. Chesebro transported me to a shimmering pond for an enlightening experience – “the kind where magic resonates in the shriek of a hawk and in the howling yips from coyote pups that play on the sandy shore under a full moon.” Even the well-known plight of honeybees is woven into her magical stories. And I thoroughly enjoyed meeting Drac, the dragon, who experiences a transformation of heart.
A few favorites are “Just What the Doctor Ordered,” “A Fairy Love Spell,” “The Healer,” and “Halloween Havoc,” which left me with a hilarious, memorable image in my mind.
Throughout the book, I became delightfully swept up in the magic of spells, incantations, and potions. I suggest you carve out some time over a night or two and dive into the magic. You won’t be disappointed. Chesebro’s storytelling and poetic offerings will lift your spirits. Highly recommended!
Do I need fifty dollar words, candlelight and wine to express what’s on my mind? I’m not one to write heartfelt emotions in rhythm or rhyme, no poet am I, and fancy words can’t match the hue in your eyes, so I’ll be wise, take my cue and simply whisper “I Love You”
An oldie from my poetry collection, Finding a Balance, Something soft for this Sunday. ❤️🥂
We sofa snuggle, legs stretched onto the ottoman. The room is ‘movie theater’ dark. Ted Lasso tells a corny joke from the TV. Suddenly, I see eight tiny brown legs moving in the air!
“Holy crap!”
“What?”
“A spider dangling too close to our legs!”
“Oh, Honey. They always seem to find you!”
I’m already in the kitchen, grabbing our ‘spider’ glass then the cardboard that completes this methodical process.
Hubby respectfully takes the glass, scooping the arachnid in, then safely releasing the visitor to freedom outside on the grass.
I was so overwhelmed in a good way by the outpouring of compassion from yesterday’s post, that this poem came to mind. But be aware, I wrote it on the fly. 🙂 It may not be the best, but I hope the message comes through loud and clear. I also learned that pink is the color for gratitude, so my rose is shared once again.
Hesitation can be a crucial sign Listen to our intuition But it may just be fear in disguise Holding us back from consolation.
Kindness pours in from around the world Taking time to listen with a big heart Lending a hand through encouraging words Sending virtual hugs to erase the hurt.
I am humbled by the compassion I am grateful for the suggestions I ache for the pain you feel, too But moving through is the best we can do.
I will catch up on reading blogs later today. Thanks again for all the wonderful suggestions that I will look into. Like I mentioned yesterday, one day at a time.
