Moments D433: My turn - Up Close & Personal

I spent the entire day on the CSC drop zone today. I watched the wingsuit crew come and go as they made their competition jumps. I took a zillion photos of the skies filled with the canopies of parachutes. I took a few more of the wingsuit crew while they were on the ground. Some shortly after landing, other photos of them as they re-packed their chutes. What an incredible amount of activity to take in. Top it off with the fact that it was a beautiful day, sunny, though windy and not too hot. I have some amazing photos.

But, the very biggest part of my day was my first ever tandem jump. After going up in one of the planes that the wingsuit crew jumped from as an observer (yes I came down with the plane!), I had an idea of what it would look like. Interestingly, I wasn't freaked out at all to see people jump from the plane as an observer. (Some of the crew thought I might be.)   I was ready to check this off my bucket list!

My tandem jump was scheduled near the end of the day, not quite sunset, but very darn close. What an incredible moment it was as I was sitting in the loading area with my AWESOME tandem instructor Woody. He kept me talking on the ride up to 14,000 feet; a smart tactic for those that may find themselves overly nervous. I was nervous (any new experience brings nerves), but I wasn't worried about it. I knew that I was in the best hands that I could be in.

Stepping off the plane, a lot surreal. Sixty seconds of freefall – uber-surreal. The wind hitting you at ~130 miles per hour means that it’s loud and it’s powerful. I was thankful for the goggles as even with them I had tears running from my eyes. But it wasn't enough to stop me from looking around. Watching the plane “fall” away from me, smiling and giving the camera man a thumbs up, finding EQ in the air for a kiss-pass (apparently quite common in the sport!), and of course looking for the ground.  In freefall I couldn't (or didn't) see the curvature of the earth, but in this photo during my jump, you can really see it!

Before I knew it, my 60s of freefall was over and the chute was opened.  We were quickly snapped into a much slower fall under the canopy. Woody gave me the reins and I was navigating the chute above us. It was incredible to be floating to the earth as I was. Woody even had us do a few spins around as we floated down. So much fun. It wasn't until we approached the ground again that I had any sense of the speed we were arriving at. Of course, after watching the process all day, I knew that the landing was pretty quick and when done well, you basically were set upon your feet gently. Woody (and I?) landed it perfectly on our feet. An amazing experience that was followed by many greetings of congratulations, hugs, high fives, and laughter from the entire crew I met yesterday. Again, very surreal to have them share such energy with me, the newbie.

A huge thank you to EQ and his teammates for making it such an incredibly special moment for me. The memory of falling away from the plane (those 3-4 seconds I could see it) is a memory will be with me forever.  

Moments stepping outside the box (or in this case the plane).

Moments realizing you really can do anything you set your mind to.

Time to revisit my list!

Moments D432: An introduction to the Sky diving culture

I love experiencing new things.  Every opportunity to grow is one that I embrace.  Not all of them are happy, joyous learning opportunities, but they all stretch my soul.  So when I was offered an opportunity to have a inside introduction into the world of sky diving, how could I ever possibly say no?  What I didn't realize was just how much I would enjoy meeting this new world.

Today I went with EQ to the drop zone in Rochelle, IL - Chicagoland Skydiving Center. It was a first for me to be on a drop zone and to meet people who sky dive. Not only did I meet some of the veterans of this particular drop zone, I was fortunate enough to meet the wingsuit group here for their first annual Sequentials Competition. Incredible people.  It's no wonder EQ loves the energy of this sport and the people he flys with.  They are such amazing people. Vibrant, full of life and energy, and they easily accepted me into their group even though I was a true outsider to the sport.

I watched as they practiced their rotations for the jumps planned tomorrow. I took a few photos and pondered their sport as they organized themselves. This sport takes sky diving to the next level. More dangerous and somewhat controversial in some circles, but for those in the sport, a testament to and surely more of an adrenaline rush. Check out this video to give you an idea!

It was an incredible moment to meet this group. I felt honoured that EQ introduced me to his sport mates – it was like being a fly on the wall, for I truly was an outsider. After an afternoon break, we met up with the crew again for a delightful Mexican dinner.  Conversations were easy to come to me with much laughter dabbled throughout the evening. What a delightful way to be introduced to a new sport and a new group of people.

Moments knowing you have no idea what to expect next.

Moments watching in awe and absorbing in the (new) energy.  

Moments D431b: CARDED

What a fabulous feeling:  Not only was I carded at the airport bar, but the bartender made it a point to tell me that he really didn't believe my date of birth.  All I could do was chuckle.

AWESOME.

Moments D431: Tall Ships

As I drove over the Burlington skyway today, I was surprised to see four tall ships in Lake Ontario.  It was incredible!  There they were, peeking out of the fog, like a movie set.

I couldn't help but watch them as I passed over the skyway.  (Carefully of course, after all I was driving!)  Why were these beauties here?  I have seen the tall ships before, up close and personal in a marina somewhere in Southern Ontario (I can't remember.....I'm no longer a young pup!).  As awe inspired as I was years ago up close and personal, I found myself now awe inspired from afar.  I had never seen them "out and about" before, only docked.  And here they were.  All four of them trekking through the lake.  So lovely.  Lovely enough to pause and watch....if I had the time.

But, I was on a timeline to the Buffalo airport.  My long, long weekend has officially begun.  This sweet inspiring surprise only reminds me just how many more surprises are (likely) in store for me this coming weekend.  I am ready.  It's time to fly.

Moments of surprise.

Moments of remembering first encounters, and enjoying the beauty of a second encounter.

Moments D430: Sweet smell of lillacs

Today was an incredibly productive day that ended in a concert with my BFF with the Goo Goo Dolls and Matchbox Twenty.  An incredible show, with a plastic guitar filled with white wine.  But this is not my special moment of the day, as amazing as it was.

No, today's moment is a simple one.  My partner in crime at work picked a bouquet of lilac flowers for one of the graphic designers on our team as it was her birthday.  The smell of lilacs filled our dark, crowded office.  Their sweetness brightened up the room considerable.  It was incredible how such a small bunch of flowers shifted the room.  When I left the office and then returned, I noticed that I was taking in a deep breath as I walked across the room to my desk.  

Ah, the sweet smell of lilacs.

Moments of simplicity.

Moments enjoying the flowers of the season.

Moments D429: Graduation Day

Today I left work at lunch.  A planned half vacation day because today was my niece's graduation from high school.  I have been a part most if not all of this lovely young ladies milestones in the past18 years.    This certainly was not one I was going to miss just because it fell on a work day.

My niece was nervous... she kept talking about tripping up the stairs.  We all assured her that that would not phappen.

Watching her prep and preen....I felt the proud aunt. Dropping her off at her friends and experience not to be missed. She was radiant.  She was ready to leave high school behind.

Well the graduation itself was a bit painful in that it was long and the arena without air conditioning was stinking hot and humid, I wouldn't have missed it for the world. As my niece crossed the stage, I let out one of my piercing whistles that did not end until she was no longer on the stage. So focused was I on cheering her on that I actually didn't get a spectacular photo of her in her moment. But I know that she knew where that with was coming from and honestly that's all that mattered.

I am so very proud of my niece she has grown into a beautiful, kind, intelligent young lady.  I find myself excited for her and her new adult life ahead of her and I can't help but reflect upon my own. Here we are two souls separated by 21 years and yet we find ourselves both starting new paths. 

Before I said goodnight to her and went on my way home,she hugged me close and asked me to fill her in on my fun weekend coming.  Of course I would...I told her.   New adventures await us both.

Moments celebrating milestones.

Moments celebrating your loved ones.

Moments D428: Quotes

Tomorrow is my "nieces" graduation.  I've taken a half day off to go down to Welland and celebrate this milestone with her.  She has grown into an amazing young woman and I'm so very proud of her.

Today's moment, was my decision to write out 22 quotes to tuck into her graduation card.  They are inspiring reminders of the life that she is about to build for herself.

Here they are, in no particular order:

1. Go confidently in the direction of your dreams.  Life the life you have imagined.  ~Henry David Thoreau.
2. Give light and people will find their way.  ~Ella Baker
3. Common sense is not so common.  ~Voltaire
4. You're off to great places, Today is your day!  Your mountain is waiting, So....get on your way.  ~Dr. Seuss
5. Hozoo'naa'n taa'aa ~ Navajo Saying  (Fly in beauty)
6. Dear past, thank you for the lessons.  Dear future, I am ready.  (Anonymous)
7. The soul becomes dyed with the color of its thoughts. ~Marcus Aurelius
8. Faith is the bird that feels he light when the dawn is still dark.  ~Rabindranath Tagore
9. Not all who wander are lost.  J.R.R. Tolken
10. Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.  ~Dalai Lama
11. Inhale the future, exhale the past.  (Anonymous)
12. Turn your face to the sun and the shadows fall behind you.  ~Charlotte Whitton
13. Don't look back, you're not going that way.  (Anonymous)
14. If you could get up the courage to begin, you have the courage to succeed.  ~David Viscott
15. Action is the real measure of intelligence.  ~Napoleon Hill
16. By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.  ~Benjamin Franklin
17. Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is not path and leave a trail.  ~Ralph Waldo Emerson
18. Fear is what stops you, and courage is what keeps you going. (Anonymous)
19. To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often.  ~Winston Churchill
20. Nii hozoo'anii'nii go'o hhozoo'naa s'aa  ~Navajo Saying  (In beauty this is finished, in beauty this begins.
21. Breathe light into darkness.  ~J.Pidgen
22. It's not always rainbows and butterflies.  Its compromise that moves us along. ~Maroon 5 Lyrics

Moments basking in pride for a loved one's accomplishments.

Moments sharing words of encouragement and inspiration.  

Moments D427: Life is for living, not for ghosts

Today was a rather intense day.  I'm not sure where all the emotions surfaced from, but I do know that a lot of them started because of ghosts of the past.  The distant past, the near past, the very near past.  Conversations had throughout the day with Arizona and EQ brought much to the surface again.  As I watch Arizona struggle to find her place with her own complicated relationship, I am reminded of my own long-term relationship that I walked away from.  Discussing and sharing with EQ to give perspective on the past couple of years and then couple of months, stirred emotions deep within.

Reflecting now, I know that subconsciously the stirring also comes from the fact that I was scheduled to meet up with my old neighbour tonight.  It's the first time I've been back to my old 'hood since my life shifted.  I know (now) that I was nervous about that.  There was much to catch up on.  It's been nearly 1.5 years now since I've been by my old home and  in my old neighbourhood.  Was I ready to see the house I once owned and fell in love with and where I fell out of love with the life I was living? I worried about how I'd feel looking at my carefully planned front garden bed. After all, last summer I couldn't bring myself to drive by to see it. Top that off with the fact that my delightful ex-neighbour has been fighting breast cancer for the past 8 months and well, it's a highly emotionally charged moment.  Life.  Near death.  Life.

When I arrived, the new home owner was outside speaking to my ex-neighbour.  She's absolutely delightful and she expressed just how much she loves living in my old home.  When I left 1.5 years ago, my BFF and I wished the house well, and asked it to please offer the next owner as much love and light as it could.  To continue to be a happy home, but to be a home filled with more love.  The new owner loves her home, I can't help be feel a touch responsible for that (ego perhaps?)  I couldn't have asked for more.  She offered a tour, but I politely declined.  In that moment when I declined, I thought to myself:  "why did I do that?"  I realized, I was barely looking at "my" beautiful front garden as well.  Instead of my energy going to the past, all of my energy was focused on my ex-neighbour - SHE LOOKED INCREDIBLE.

After a double mastectomy, chemo and radiation (all in the last 8 months) she looked AMAZING.  My energy and focus was all with her.  As we went into her house and sat in the back yard (I won't lie) I peeked over her fence into my old back yard.  The natural cedar now stained, the fountain trickling away, there was a moment of pang; I missed my backyard.  And then my ex-neighbour handed me a glass of the prosecco I brought (to celebrate her success in kicking cancer), and I knew that the ghosts of my past were really behind me.  I looked at her and said, I miss my backyard, and my awesome bathtub, but you know, I've never been happier, and I know that I can always do something as spectacular or better.  And I gave her another hug and repeated the obvious - that she looked incredible.  

And if I might, because the words are beautiful and thoughtful, EQ's perspective of the moment was this:

"...you [will] look at your old flowerbeds, feel a bit wistful, and then smile because you know you're on a new path in life, and you've left a small bit of beauty behind for others to tend to and enjoy. Seeds planted, new life all around."

I couldn't agree more.

During the rest of my visit, the fact that I was sitting outside of my old home slowly vanished away.  It's a piece of me and it always will be, but I realized at one point in our evening that life is for the living.  For looking forward and planning for that future.  I can't look back any more, nor can I regret any steps I've made in my life.  Each and every step makes me who I am today and while some of those lessons learned were not easy, they were all necessary.  Today, I find myself to be a much more strong and independent person than I've ever been.  Yes, life is for the living, not for the ghosts of my past.

So today's moment:  I celebrate life.  The fight for life, the amazing people that continue to cross my path and bring me inspiration and love and light.  My ex-neighbour, a fighter, but also a woman with a soft kind soul that would give you the shirt of her back if you needed it more than she did.  I'm fortunate to continue to have her in my life and I can honestly say I look forward to our next girlie-night-catch-up.  Hopefully not 1.5 years from now!

Moments of internal commotion of emotion....calming into eddies.

Moments that paint the bigger picture in bright beautiful colour.

Moments D426: Super moon, Super Love

Today was an incredible afternoon and evening with my family.  Again I am reminded just how fortunate I am to have such a close, loving family.  That's not to say it's perfect, because it certainly isn't, but its imperfections is what makes it uniquely mine.

Today, a day, we celebrated my niece's 15th birthday with a family BBQ.  I had an opportunity to catch up with my favourite "non-neices", my actual nephews, a couple of my aunts and uncles and cousins, not to mention my own Mom & Dad.  So much laughter.  So much excitement for the kids and their new adventures (from braces coming off, to prom dresses and karate & ball hockey dates not to be missed.)  Every time I started a new conversation, I felt filled with love.  In short, an amazing day.

The best part was on the drive home though.  It was just before 10pm when I stopped for gas and finally laid my eyes on the "super moon" rising.  I lost my breathe for a moment.  It was so very beautiful.  After gassing up, I went to the back of a commercial parking lot (mother would not approve that I was on my own doing this!), got out of my car and walked into the field to snap a few pictures.  BEAUTIFUL.  I returned to my car and sat there for a few minutes just absorbing the view.

As I neared home, I couldn't help but pull off the road and park at the beach.  And I took a few more pictures.  Interesting was the diagonal ray of light.  I could have sat there on the beach all night watching the moon pass over, but I was eager to get home and share the experience.

A super moon, a super day with family, topped off by an evening of super catch up with Hawk and EQ.  This girl is super charged.  Life is bright and I am ready to share my light once again.

Moments filled with laughter and love.

Moments filled with quiet introspection by the light of the full moon.

Moments D425: A new day, a new path

Last night I had an amazing conversation that melted into the wee hours of the morning.  Inspiring, soul searching and heart filling is what this conversation was to me.  When I finally shut my eyes near 4am, I wasn't yet ready to leave the conversation, but I was exhausted and needed to allow sleep to find me.

When I awoke at 11 am, my new day, my new path was in full swing.  My long weekend plans are nearly laid out and it will be a weekend like no other.

That being said, getting to that point was not easy.  Here's why:  Yesterday flight costs were $500 (give or take), when I went to book my flight this morning, they were now $1300.  After cozy-ing into and committing to this new path, my first step onto the path and I hit a fairly major obstacle.  An $800 difference.  My budget....blown.  What on earth to do now.

Instead of total panic, I had lunch with Arizona and of course we talked about my challenge.  She put it in simple terms:  How important was it that I go on this trip.  I didn't even pause before answering:  it was very important to me and my next steps.  And so, then and there over falafals, I decided, no matter what it would take, I was going to go to Chicago.

As a side-bar:  Chicago is significant for me on a couple of levels.  Perhaps that will rise out in another blog post.  Suffice it to say, here today, that it brings closure and renewal all at once.  I look forward to making new beautiful memories in a city I fell in love with nearly 2 years ago.

When I returned home from lunch, I rolled up my sleeves and dug in.  I was ready to make the 8 hour drive alone if I had to.  Instead, I found a flight out of Buffalo.  Now, my new path is officially cleared of obstacles.  It is fully out in front of me.  I paused today during the flurry of research and questions.  I wonder, if on some level, this was the universe testing my will, or testing my commitment to my new path.  If it were a test, I dare say I passed it with flying colours, for I am still on said path.

I'm excited.  I'm filled with hope and wonder and I can't wait to turn the page and begin this new chapter.

Moments being shocked and uncertain.

Moments knowing, deep down, you'll do whatever it takes to make it happen.

Moments D424: Summer Solstice

Happy summer to each of you!  Today is the longest day of the year and it marks the beginning of summer.  It also, for me, marks the beginning of a new perspective on life.  Today's moment is two-fold for me.  The first a very deep and personal shift.  The second, spending the evening on the beach, playing volleyball on the longest day of the year while watching the sunset and the near-full moon rise.  Stunning.  Could it have been more perfect?

It's funny how quickly things can shift.  I find, it's even more significant when those shifts happen to occur on significant dates.  Today a shift on the solstice and near-full moon.  Damn.  Now that is intense!

Why the shift?  I'm not sure.  I've reflected upon this question without finding a true answer.  Part of the answer is that it really is time to celebrate me and my deepest needs.  Without a doubt, I've been avoiding this due to circumstance and simple fear.  When you hear of death (and there have been a few this past week, far from me, but close to my friends), it shakes you.  It's not in my personal circle, but it still shakes you to see how it affects your friends.  This had me stop to think about how short life is and how (again) every day much be celebrated.  WHY ON EARTH was I living in fear?  WHAT was holding me back?

The answer was simple.  *I* was holding me back.

It is time to let go of the fear, time to full be in the moment and plan my future.  Come what may, I want to find a reciprocated love.  I want to share my deepest self.  Today the season changed and this deep, life-altering change happened within me.  I am ready.  Throwing caution to the wind, I opened myself up a little more deeply to the signs around me.  I have opened myself to embarking on a new path.  A path I have previously run from for fear of the unknown.  One that now is in my sights and is fully illuminated (and believe me, the pun here (being the longest day of the year) is not lost on me!).  This a path that brings me much joy and hope.  A path brings a flutter to me that I haven't felt in a long time. Come what may, this summer is going to be the experience of a lifetime for me.  For me, it begins today.

Moments celebrating the summer solstice and the rising moon.
Moments allowing the flood of sunshine and moonlight to find me and give me the courage to celebrate my deepest inner-self.

Moments D423: Sunrise

Today I was up early. Earlier than I wanted to be. Earlier than I had expected to be. As woke, the wash of realization for the emotional depth and growth over the past few days was with me. What a set of beautiful experiences this year’s trade show has offered me.

I smiled as I watched the early sun peak over the horizon of buildings and the sky begin its shifting colours of gold, pink, and soft yellow. It’s been a beautiful morning and as this song played on my radio, I realized that I too have changed over these past few days. I’m not just a “little girl” as the song lyrics in my ear remind me. I’m a woman with more to offer than I realized.

The dawning of the sun. The dawning of a new realization. How apropos. Nothing today can trump this moment. It’s why I write my entry early today.

Moments enjoying the lingering feelings of an intense few days of excitement and change.

Moments pausing, breathing in the golden sunshine.

Moments D422: A gift

Day two of our trade show was not nearly as busy as day one, but on many levels, it was more successful.

Today, one of our key presenters of the show really went above and beyond. Yesterday he and one of my favourite co-workers had an in depth conversation about POV cameras and how they are changing the industry. I think each man found himself (surprisingly?) impressed by the other. It was quite interesting to have heard the story from each perspective later in the day. What I find more interesting is what that conversation inspired today.

It reminded me that sometimes all it takes to really rock someone’s world is a small gift. That moment passed today between these two gentlemen. As a third party, again, hearing the story from both perspectives, I found myself enjoying in the delight of both parties. It was a small token of respect and appreciation from one to another, and a full reciprocation of that respect and appreciation. How could that not make my soul smile?

Moments watching two amazing gentlemen discuss business and life and smiling at the outcome.

Moments being reminded that the little things, the little gifts of life, matter.

Moments D421: New friends and synergies

Today was day one of our annual trade show. It was, quite simply, an amazing day. The day started after a night of little sleep, but that did not affect the day at all, if anything, it gave the day a little extra energy powered by the excitement and the caffeine.

The most interesting moment of the day was dinner this evening. It was an evening where I was able to sit and enjoy both new friends, deepening friendships from past shows and old friends. Over the course of my meal, I found myself sandwiched between two particularly interesting souls. One relatively new to my personal world, and another that I’ve had a deepening relationship with for a couple of years. This particular evening, I was like the net between two playing tennis. While it was challenging to eat my dinner due to the intensity of their conversation, it was amazing to watch (and feel) the energy pass back and forth between these two amazingly creative souls. I watched, in a front row seat, as the synergies built. It was the birth of a new friendship.

What an energy to be a part of.

Moments making new, deepening friendship.

Moments watching the creative forces swirl around me.

Moments D420: Signs, everywhere signs

Today was setup day for our annual trade show. It is always a bit nerve wracking, but being our fourth year of pulling this show together, we had experience on our side. The tweaks made over last year’s show made setup this year come together more smoothly than ever. And, to top it off, this year’s team was the best rounded yet and the required work came together quickly and easily.

Yet, as always, there were a few bumps and bruises along the way. (Of course, right?) Today’s moment is about averting a challenging situation for a vendor. It wasn’t easy, it took some hoop jumping (okay, quite a bit), but it was accomplished none-the-less. The levels of appreciation, the feeling of accomplishment, the deepening of a business relationship…that’s what it’s all about right?

Moments working hard and feeling a sense of accomplishment.

Moments where the simple act of a sign, makes another’s day.

Moments D419: Rainy days in bed

This morning was a rainy morning. What better a day to just stay in bed?

And though the rain clouds lifted late afternoon, instead of heading back into reality and prepping for the busy week ahead, another movie played out the rest of the afternoon. How incredibly lazy and delightful it was. So lazy you’d think I’d feel refreshed and full of energy this evening!

Unfortunately, after running around prepping for my busy week in a couple of hours (instead of most of the day), I find myself quite tired. It’s kind of crazy! I’m looking forward to going back to bed. I’m sure I’ll sleep like the dead, which is great because the next three days are ProFusion and it is going to be BUSY!

Moments digging deeper within oneself and allowing enjoyment in laziness.

Moments of watching the day pass without a care.

Moments D418: Friends meeting friends

Some of the best times in my life is when one group of friends meet up with another group of friends. Tonight was one of those nights where two of my worlds collided. It was fantastic. Shared stories and laughter over a most delightful mean and then pictures and videos (with more laughter!) later on. I loved sitting on the deck, watching the moon cross the sky as we enjoyed our wine and conversation by candlelight.

Moments of great food, best friends and new friends.

Moments D417: Lost car in the parking garage

Ever had one of those days where the clock seemed to be on FAST? That was today. The day flew by and the evening went just as quickly. Before I knew it, I was late to leave my place to head to Pearson! My friend’s plane, of course, was scheduled to land early!

Fortunately, I managed to get to Pearson just after his plane landed. I parked and fast walked to the arrivals waiting area. And yes, I noted where my car was, but apparently not well enough!

After our reunion in arrivals, we walked back to the parking garage. Deep in conversation, we walked right past the aisle where my car was and before I knew it I was completely turned around! It was embarrassing, and it was somewhat humerous. A couple of aisles and moments of laughter later we gave up and started to use my fob for the car alarm. That didn’t really help since we were facing the wrong direction! Laughter ensued, but shortly thereafter, we found the car. Right where I left it. And I noted how we had just walked all the way around the aisle that it was in.

It was an amusing moment of my day and it broke a lot of the day’s tension. It’s funny how something so silly can do that.

Moments of “aha!”

Moments of laughter & silliness.

Moments D416: Rain, rain come along.....

Today I made up my own little song or rhyme. I was inspired as I was tagged to play in a late baseball game last night as a sub. After a busy, tiring week, I wasn’t sure I wanted to head out to play baseball at 9:30pm…..in a wet field.

So, instead of chanting away the rain, I made up a new chant.

It made me smile. It’s the moment I share today.

Rain, rain, come along

Let me sing my silly song

Rain, rain, com along

It didn’t work. I played ball. We won. I ran the bases four times. But it was fun to sign it all day long and to taunt our baseball coach that we’d be rained out. My punishment - it rained while we were playing. We all got wet! We laughed a little more. It was so much fun. I’m glad I went. I’m glad my chant against the rain didn’t work.

Funny how things work out sometimes!

Moments being silly.

Moments singing.

Moments D415: Inspiration, Love and Joy

Today was an intense day. It was a day that started with a simple, yet highly inspirational, email from a dear friend on his way into town this coming weekend. It was followed by an intense day of work, then a mid-term for school (which I think was successful!) and then a meeting for my new business adventure. I drove out to meet the founder and another of his core team members for a 9:30pm meeting! What an inspiring meeting that was, my brain is on fire, even though I’m tired from the rest of my day (well week really!). This business adventure is, if nothing else, going to be an experience for me that will most certainly expand my tool kit. This excites me! As I started my drive home, I thought this was surely my moment to share today, but it was trumped. (And yet I snuck it in!)

The moment that brought me the biggest moment of my day was the phone call on my 30 minute drive home. I called my girl from the North (I am officially going to dub her HAWK, as I believe this is one of her totems. I’m sure she will correct me if I’m wrong, but after reading this summary of HAWK as totem, I think it fits her well.)

Hawk was entertaining guests. I knew she had guests. I expected a short and sweet call. What I didn’t expect was the outpouring of love. From her and from her “boy-next-door” friend. Although short and sweet, the moment filled me with love and joy for my best friend. I was delighted to hear her so happy and so giddy. (She too had a rough week last week!) And, even 230km away, I felt I was right there with her.

Amazing really.

Moments of inspiration, of love and of joy. All in one day. I AM FORTUNATE!

And now that my exam is over, I can think beyond today. The weekend is coming. I have a friend coming in from out of town. I’m further inspired, filled with love and joy for those moments to come. I am ready to learn how to fly.

Moments to be inspired.

Moments being filled with love and joy.

Moments D414: Statler and Waldorf

Today was busy day from the start with one final (marathon) meeting before the big trade show. The good news: we are near ready. The news bringing anxiety, we are only days away and there is yet much to produce.

And, as you may recall, my team and I have been displaced due to an office fire. As such we are all working together in very tight quarters. There is little privacy (actually I don’t think there is any privacy come to think of it!) and we are, at times communicating to one another out loud for all to hear. It’s been an interesting dynamic and it has certainly pulled us closer as a team. (And we now better understand musical preferences and the value of earphones, but I digress!)

In the room (which I like to call the war room as we are nearly all sitting around one big table) my CD and I are situated at what has been lovingly labelled “the head of the class”. (In some ways it does feel that way, especially when I have an apple on my side and my CD has a ruler on his!) In other moments, like today, we were lovingly labelled “Statler & Waldorf.”

Now, if you don’t know Statler & Waldorf, they are muppets who heckle from their balcony seats. The funniest thing: They are a bit grumpy and grouchy about their heckles and they laugh furiously at their own jokes. And, while my CD and I are not old men, nor are we grumpy or grouchy, we do have many a quip for the team during a day and boy oh boy do we laugh heartily at our own jokes.

So yes - that comparison made me laugh. It makes me smile now even as I share the moment. I loved it in that moment and I love it now. Knowing that we can make the team smile and laugh and we can laugh at ourselves is priceless.

Further, it reminds me, yet again, at what a great team I’m on and I am grateful for all the moments I work with them. Their words, insights and silliness are what makes the day an enjoyable day. Today, I am thankful for the label and the smile!

Moments being labelled.

Moments of pure, unadulterated laughter!

Moments D413: Waiting at the street car stop

On my way home tonight from work, I was behind a street car for awhile. One of the times I slowed to wait for passengers to get off the street car, I noticed that there was a man standing at the street car stop with a big black umbrella. He was not making any move to board the street car. I was curious.

The rear doors opened and off stepped a woman. She broke into a friendly smile and went right into his arms, sheltered under the big umbrella.

He was waiting for her at the stop with an umbrella. I can’t tell you how impressed I was. I was touched by this chivalrous gesture. As much as I am an independent woman, I still love to see these small (HUGE) gestures of love and respect. (I would do the same for my partner - why not!)

How incredibly sweet and adorable and in love they were It was a moment that, as a passing stranger, brought a smile to my face.

Moments enjoying strangers in love.

Moments reminding yourself what you are looking for.

Moments D412: Never too old to try something new

Today I tried something new. It’s nothing special or unique or anything that many other women haven’t tried and been successful with. Frankly, I’ve always wondered what the fuss was about and, needing a study break, I figured - why not give it a shot.

And so I did. I’m still trying to figure out the pros & cons of this new process, but in trying it out, I realized that I’m not too old to try new things. Not even things that I likely should have tried years ago. That’s my moment today. Realizing I’m never too old for something new. Although, as I type this out, I suppose there are a few things that will, by nature, be crossed off my list. For example: physically having children. To date, even that is within the realm of possibility at this point, but it won’t be forever. Perhaps contortionism is a better example. That’s something better left to the limber bodies of young girls!

Seriously, regardless of a small handful of things that I can’t do because of my age, the fact of the matter is, there are a lot more things I can still try and explore and do, regardless of my age.

Today was just a little reminder of that. Thank you study break.

Moments trying something new just because.

Moments realizing age will not hold me back unless I choose to let it.

Moments D411: Vacuum Storage Bags - Shrinking items?

Today was a very late start for me as I slept in to nearly noon. (After crawling into be at 5am, who could blame me, right?) I found myself groggy and my mind unclear, so a day of hard studying really wasn't in the cards as I had hoped. I did read a couple of my articles that I was behind and later in the day I ventured out to finally pick up a few vacuum storage bags and put away my winter outerwear, extra blankets, duvets and comforters.

The moment of my day comes from this brief excursion. As I was checking out with only two packages of these storage bags, the cashier asked me, very seriously, if when you vacuum these bags if the items inside shrink. Confused at the question, thinking perhaps there was a loss of thought as English was not her first language. Instead of answering her question directly, I explained how the bags worked: by vacuuming out all the air from the bag, which takes up less space. She asked again “But does that shrink the items in the bag?” I was surprised at this question and answered no, not the items in the bag do not shrink. There is just not more air in the bag.

She smiled at me in a way that suggested she still didn't understand me. I smiled back to her and wished her a good evening.

Sometimes even simple ideas can be complicated to some. A reminder that we are all different in how we understand and perceive things.

Moments failing to explain.

Moments accepting this for what it is.

Moments D410: Teamwork and Perserverance

Today was deadline day for two very large marketing projects. The day was busy from the start as we were, of course, complications yesterday as we neared the final stages of our projects.

Today, however, we fought through them all. Together, as a team. We pushed forward. I learned a lot about graphic designing and working on Apple computers. It’s been a wonderfully strange day, it doesn’t feel as long as it’s been. Nineteen hours later, we are heading home. We had a big day, and the four of us dug deep to get here, but it was also filled with lots of smiles and laughter.

I will fall into my bed exhausted, but with a sense of accomplishment.

Moments of incredible teamwork.

Moments knowing you are part of something incredible.

Moments D409: Kitten Leaps

Today my kitten managed to make a leap of her short 5.5 month lifetime.

She has been eying the window above my bath tub since she was about 8 weeks old. Every time I opened the window she would sit on the edge of the bath tub, tail twitching looking to the window. You could almost see her trying to figure out how to herself up there. She was eager to make the jump but she was always too small to close the distance.

Today after my shower, while I was getting ready for work, she took the leap of faith and landed gracefully in the bathroom window. Boooyah!

Score one for my baby kitten - a baby no longer.

Moments watching thoughts.

Moments watching thoughts turn into action

Moments D408: Compliments

I'm not very good with them. In fact, I shy away from them when and where I can.

Today's moment was a first for me in that I received a compliment from my new business partner that didn't make me uncomfortable. (And yes, that too sounds strange to me, that I have a business partner!)

As I drove home from my class (which ran late!) he and I had a conference. He was feeling anxious. I had answers. His response as we neared the end of our call was to compliment me. He gushed over the tools I am bringing to his new team. It was a tremendous, wordy and deeply genuine compliment. Normally I would shy away from it, bashful almost. Instead, I took it all in stride and didn't even blink when I replied with an equally genuine "thank you" and reminded him that's why I was on his team!

Truly, I think it's the first time I've had such a gushing compliment that I wasn't uncomfortable about. This gave me pause. Why, in this case, was I comfortable with the compliment?

I gave it some thought. It wasn't merely because I was exhausted and not really engaged or paying attention. I was fully engaged and aware of the compliment. The only thing I could determine is that maybe, just maybe I was so open and accepting of the compliment because I believed in it. In this particular case, I believed my business partner's words. I believe in my skill set. I believe in my ability to deliver value to this new team.

Moments of growth.

Moments of awareness.

Moments D407: Super Star Dad

My Dad (finally) received his birthday card today in the mail and he sent me a quick email to thank me for it. Surprisingly, he expressed his surprise at my words within the card. I had called him a “super star”. He had no idea why I would have said that.

Huh. Really? I guess as a daughter I’ve failed at sharing my words with him! Perhaps he’s just being humble. After all, he’s survived and accomplished much in his life. How could he not know he’s a super star?

My Dad hasn’t had an easy life. He’s worked hard and fought for everything he has and more importantly for the man he is. Eighteen operations. A son who, as an infant, was in and out of hospitals. Working many overtime hours in his career, so that his family would have more than just what we needed. Stepping up and helping his ailing father before he passed. Continuing to take care of his mother, now lost to Alzheimer’s. I watched him lovingly take care of his wife as she fought her own battle with cancer. This a man who worked hard all through his working years, who continues to work hard in retirement. All the while he is quick with a smile or laughter. There is no doubt in my mind: This man IS a super star.

I don’t say this because he’s my Dad. No. This is a man who digs deeper than anyone else I know. He’s an incredible human being and one that I am fortunate enough to have him in my life to learn from. His work ethic is above and beyond and his views on life are flexible and varied. I’m lucky to be able to call him Dad, but he’s not a super star because he’s my Dad. He’s a super star because he is incredible as a person. I am ever grateful.

So today, a reminder to me, to remind my Dad, the super star, more often just how incredible he is.

Moments appreciating brilliant people.

Moments of gratitude for my life.

Moments D406: My two cents, now worth five

It’s a small notion, a simple shift in perspective, but it certainly made me smile.

Surely you've heard the term “put my two cents in” when sharing an idea with others. Well, here in Canada, we've done away with pennies. Prices are now rounded up to the nearest 5 cents.

And so, my two cents worth, are now actually valued at five.

Better yet, next time you ask me “A penny for your thoughts?” you’d best be ready with a nickle.

Moments of being silly.

Moments wondering if in a decade or three the saying really will change?

Moments D405: Summer Storms

Today I was home prepping for my very long week and coming weekend. With an assignment due for class, extra long work days all this week and my mid-term all happening in the next 10 days, my plate is very full.

As I puttered and dealt with my chores, the weather was as fickle as my mood. First thing this morning, it was sunny, bright and humid. By the time I was home from picking up groceries, the sky was darkening. Before I knew it, the sky had opened up and there was a heavy downpour. Within moments, they sky was clear yet again, the sun out and drying up the puddles.

An hour or so later, it happened all over again. This time, the tennis courts across the street from me were filled with players. Instead of running from the downpour, each of the four courts of players simply kept on playing! I was shocked, but I smiled knowing that I’d likely do the same if I were on the court. They laughed, they giggled, one even hooted into the rain. What fun it was to watch and a great way to break up my day.

Strangely enough, this happened two more times today. What a strange fickle day of weather, but it was entertaining. It almost made up for being stuck inside all day working.

Moments puttering and prepping.

Moments enjoying the weather.

Moments D404: Windy Wine Country

Today was a long,long day. I was up and out of bed by 7 am and I didn't get home until nearly 11 pm. But what an incredible day it was!

I was up and out picking up Arizona, and then Heini to join my besties for breakfast at 9 am. After a hearty breakfast at Golden Griddle, the five of us were on our way to meet up with another 5 friend and to enjoy a day of wine tasting in the “Bench” of the Niagara Escarpment.



There was food, wine, and music throughout this event. The weatherman had been calling for clouds and rain later in the afternoon; we were fortunate: most of the afternoon was filled with extremely windy sunshine. (I suppose those high winds were left over from the tornadoes in the Southern states!)

The 10 of us managed to visit 4 of the 7 wineries. We enjoyed tasting the food, sampling the wines and taking in the music at each location. It was a brilliant day. An opportunity for everyone to mix and mingle and have a chance to get to know new friends. There were many beautiful moments today, but one of the best was when the summer storm finally hit while we were at one of my favourite wineries in the region: Peninsula Ridge.





We all tucked in under the tent and watched as the rain clouds blew in. We then watched the clouds unload their burden. It was a full on summer downpour. We laughed, with played in it, we debated if it was a “warm” rain or not. And before we knew it, the rain storm had moved on just as quickly as it had arrived. The sun was out once again and we were off to our final destination, my other favourite winery in the region: Fielding Estate.

We spent the last of our tickets here on food and wine. We enjoyed the humid windy and the solo artist singing out Johnny Cash. It was an incredible day, followed by a fun dinner out together and tea after that. We were all a little burnt, “wined-out”, and tired by the time we rolled home, but I think we all felt like our souls were recharged from sharing the experience together and enjoying the outdoors for as long as we had.

Moments enjoying the fickle weather with delicious (and some not so delicious!) wines.

Moments building lasting memories with your friends.