September is here, and so are the geese!

When I walked the dog this morning I heard the familiar sounds of geese flying overhead. It's September 1st, there's a slight chill in the air. They must be heading south.

All of a sudden the memories flood into my head: When each one of our four children was a toddler we'd share many September mornings sitting on the front porch marveling at those graceful birds. We'd wrap up in a blanket sharing a hint of excitement as this event marked the beginning of the fall season. These were awesome opportunities to have a few moments alone with each child, just to sit and listen to the squawking above. Then the questions would come: Where are they going, mommy? Why? Why do they make that funny sound? Are they talking to each other? Why do they fly in a 'V' shape? Year after year I'd give the same answer to each child until they came of school age. No time to ponder, the bus will be here any minute. When Emily started elementary school I lost that time with her, so Camille took her spot on the porch. Then she started elementary school and it was Tyler's turn. Then Daniel.

Now that our children are all in school, I share this time with our dog. She can't ask the questions, but I know what she's thinking!

25 Random Things

1. Afraid of public speaking.
2. Not afraid of public singing.
3. Twice I've sung the National Anthem at a Braves game (NOT solo, though)!
4. Had bunion surgery on both feet ~ at the same time.
5. Wore braces on my feet as an infant.
6. Never wore braces in my mouth.
7. Have five crowns (in my mouth, that is)
8. Never worn a crown on my head.
9. Been in a hot air balloon at 5:30am.
10. I would never sky-dive.
11. I am a certified scuba-diver, but have not dived since my honeymoon 18 years ago.
Guess I'm not certified anymore:-(
12. Fascinated by lighthouses.
13. The ocean scares me, but I'm drawn to it.
14. In another life, I must have been a sailor.
15. Recently read the book Ahab's Wife.
16. I've seen a 200 lb. lagerhead turtle lay its eggs at midnight, then make its way back to sea by moonlight.
17. I have four children. Three are blonde, blue-eyed. One is olive skin and hazel eyes, like me.
18. I am of Puerto Rican heritage. My husband is of dutch-german heritage.
19. I do not speak spanish fluently.
20. My first job was picking up golf balls from the driving range.
21. I do not play golf.
22. I've done some pretty stupid things.
23. God loves me anyway. He must have known I would come around eventually.
24. I am an artist.
25. I am 47 years old.

Breathe On Me

Right now I feel so fortunate to have a home to care for, children to nourish, a canine companion to take with me on my morning walk, and time to reflect on our blessings. There is silence in the home while the kids are at school and hubby is at work. Here are words to a song that's stuck in my head today:
Find me here, in this place
Son of God, saving Grace
At this hour, all my days
Breathe on me, breathe on me
Morning star, shine your light
As I walk through this life
God of power, God of might
Breathe on me, breathe on me
Forever, you are the reason for living
Merciful Savior unending
Breathe on me
When I'm weak, You are strong
Your breath in me will be my song In You my King, I belong
Breathe on me, breathe on me
Forever, You are the God of my story
Write every line for Your glory
Breathe on me...