Once in a while I watch those shows where houses are completely transformed. Everything old is new again. Every room is redecorated in the most creative ways. Each picture is part of the grand theme. Every nook is filled with something beautiful and perfect, and freshly baked scones are on an antique pedestal for the home unveiling, where the lucky teary-eyed owners will ohhhh and ahhhh as they slowly float from kitchen to bedroom to the en suite. I’ve dreamed about what it would be like to have my home completely transformed like this, right down to the perfectly placed vase on a night table.

I look around my home. It wouldn’t meet HGTVs standards.  There’s the obstinate red wine stain on the carpet from a family gathering, and the scratch on the wall from moving the dresser down the hallway, the very one I was bought at a yard sale and painted (not-so-perfectly) myself.

A home is made by its occupants and their stories (for better or worse). Every home has those cherished items and each a story to tell. They weren’t placed expertly at this angle or on this shelf by an interior decorator (though I have had one, on two separate occasions), but they are well-loved, sometimes well-worn,  perhaps transported home from a vacation, or if fortunate enough, handmade by a skilled friend or two.

Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting a craftsman, Jerel. He creates furniture (as a hobby). I wanted a table with specific measurements. I’d had no success finding what I wanted (of course!). After several conversations and emails, I have an expertly crafted table, signed by Jerel in my living room!

Transporting the table involved a trip to the craftsman’s home where we enjoyed “2:30 break time” with Jerel and his lovely wife, Jane along with beer and popcorn. The conversations were interesting ,and the time we spent there went entirely too quickly. We left with the history of IPA, freshly picked snap peas (Jerel insisted I pick them myself), the promise of a Yosemite tour, and a handcrafted piece of furniture. My living room isn’t perfect. The table is! It’s far more valuable to me than any item I could have purchased, even from a place that makes my heart skip a beat, Pottery Barn.

Summer vacation is coming. This is the time of year I consider home projects that won’t get done any other time of the year. Since I’m developing my book, my recent attention has been on my home office. While on the topic of pieces that make a house a home, I must mention another artist I’m fortunate to know. I proudly own several of his unique pieces. I call my office “my nest.” And I’m looking toward making it a cozier space that inspires me to dream and create (and hopefully be productive).  It’s already filled with two  handmade items from this local artist who creates items under the name Lola Bell, his dear mother’s name. Many people know him as Bill. My creations from his collection are the foundation for my nest and hold warm memories as they were created just for me!  The sun and peace symbol are forever pieces filled with so many details that I can get lost looking and always find something I didn’t see before. The creativity of Lola Bell inspires me each time I walk into my nest.

 

Not every item in a home can have a special story, and darn. Most of us can’t come home to a fully decorated home courtesy of HGTV and your bank account. I’m not sure I’d want to anyway. We can look around and find creative ways to have pieces that are inspiring and make our houses, warm and inviting homes.

Slainte!

Susan

 

 

You know those deceiving pieces of U.S mail that appear to be personally handwritten, with your name and address, specifically addressed to you, like from a friend? But soon, you realize it’s another piece of junk mail to be added to your overflowing recycling bin.

Last week, I thought it was one of those. On second glance, it wasn’t. It was an authentic envelope addressed by a friend. Opening it rather quickly, I found a handwritten letter. It was a letter, a real letter, lengthy too. Frankly, at first I just skimmed the letter noting the quantity of words on the pages. What a delight to be updated on my friend’s happenings-the old-fashioned way! My first inclination was to text her, thanking her for taking such time to actually write a real letter, but that would take away from the kind gesture as well as the sentiments expressed. No, a text message wasn’t appropriate.

So, I wrote back, by hand too. Fresh out of beautiful stationery, or any for that matter, I was going to wait to reply. I considered me, and how sometimes my greatest intentions get sidelined, so I found paper a little fancier than binder paper, and started writing. I had two pieces and filled them both.

My surprise about a handwritten letter would not have been the case not so many years ago. However, we know in the world we live it today, email, text messages, and social media is quick, easy, and grammar and punctuation are inconsequential. A quick Google search showed many kids have never received a personal letter, delivered via the postal service (I believe it). While for adults, receiving a handwritten letter happens less than six times per year (that even seems high to me).

My friend was delighted also, to receive my correspondence, and that too made my day. Simple. Simple. Sending and receiving a handwritten letter added a little sunshine to my world. Thanks Clair!

Included in this letter was a quote. “Help keep the art of writing by hand alive.” Wondering if you can help. Can you brighten someone’s day with a letter?

Slainte! Susan

 

 

A favorite hat I wear is that of running coach. For six months out of each year (6th year in a row now), I play a part in training people how to successfully cross a marathon finish line. These six months of training are some of the best months of each year. Each team is different. Each year I worry that it won’t be as special as the previous year’s. Each time, I’m mistaken.

While it is my “job” to assist with all that goes into running 13.1 or 26.2 miles, each year I am the one who learns the most. That I’m sure of. Training schedules, track workouts, hydration, running nutrition, form, shoes, clothing, toe nails, rest days, socks, etc. top the list of coaching points. Surely I couldn’t do this without some of the most supportive mentors around!

But, throughout our training season, I’m the student too, acquiring  far greater knowledge than I offer. From each person I learn about  dedication, goal setting, perseverance, determination, schedule juggling, strength-mental and physical, people supporting people they just met, kindness, in essence I witness the power of the human spirit.  These amazing runners allow me to be part of their lives. Each one comes with a life story. Many share these stories, each one always unique, and I’m always honored to listen.

I hear of disappointment, sadness, uncertainty, milestones, and celebrations! I’ve heard disappointment about being too sick to participate in a 20 mile run. Now that’s determination. I’ve witnessed tears from people who are injured and may not be able to achieve a goal. I’ve witnessed time management at its best as people juggle young families and aging parents, active schedules, contract negotiations, work commitments too numerous to name, family gatherings including Thanksgiving and Christmas, all the while trying to be there for everybody  who place demands on their time. Factor in training for a marathon, and it’s clear to see the high level of commitment that is the norm for this team.

Our “scheduled” training culminates with smiles, tears of joy, cheering families, flowers, blisters, sore feet, tired legs, and the greatest sense of satisfaction at the finish line where the coveted medal is finally placed around each person’s neck. But, the training doesn’t usually stop here. I am again full of admiration for each runner as they immediately set new goals.  You see, the training really doesn’t end at the finish line. It’s really the start of more new and great adventures.

Each year my life is enriched with new friendships and knowledge gleaned from the team. Even though I’m the “coach” on record, it is truly me learning and growing from remarkable people, now friends. While I’m the “coach” in reality, I’m the student. Another hat I enjoy wearing.

Slainte! Susan

Optional Reading******************************************************

We refer to our team as geese. Do you know the story of the geese?

When you see geese heading south for the winter, flying in a “V” formation, you might consider what science has discovered as to why they fly that way. As each bird flaps its wings, it creates an uplift for the bird immediately following. By flying in a “V” formation, the whole flock adds at least 71 percent greater flying range than if each bird flew on its own.
People who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going more quickly and easily, because they are travelling on the thrust of one another. When a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of trying to go it alone and quickly gets back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird in front. 
If we have the sense of a goose, we will stay in formation with those people who are heading the same way we are.

When the head goose gets tired, it rotates back in the wing and another goose flies point.
It is sensible to take turns doing demanding jobs, whether with people or with geese flying south.Geese honk from behind to encourage those up front to keep up their speed.
What message do we give when we honk from behind?

Finally – and this is important – when a goose gets sick or is wounded and falls out of the formation, two other geese fall out with that goose and follow it down to lend help and protection. They stay with the fallen goose until it is able to fly or until it dies; and only then do they launch out on their own, or with another formation to catch up with their own group.
If we have the sense of a goose, we will stand by each other like that.

(http://www.inspire21.com/stories/businessstories/Asenseofagoose)

 

 

 

Books on a street corner, right in your own neighborhood!

Reading is one of life’s restorative  moments. Some of the fondest memories I have of my mother involve walking to our public library. She would help me tote home piles and piles of books. Our librarian, Sharon A., knew me by name, and particularly  doted over me when my mother dressed me in the blue and red Raggedy Ann pinafore along with the curly hair I didn’t like, even then. I enjoy talking and sharing books with fellow bibliophiles. Having an abundance of books to read… well it’s just the best feeling. Browsing through books at the book store, the thrift store, the internet, the library, my own shelves at home, and now even “taking and sharing” a book on a street corner near my home is cause for jubilation.

You can have a mini library right in your own front yard. Little Free Library is a movement cropping up. Their mission…

“To promote literacy and the love of reading by building free book exchanges worldwide and to build a sense of community as we share skills, creativity and wisdom across generations. There are over 36,000 Little Free Library book exchanges around the world, bringing curbside literacy home and sharing millions of books annually.” See here.

We have a Little Library in my hometown, and I love being a regular “customer.” I’m sure it’s all a mindset, but I seem to thoroughly devour every book I select from this little gem. Both selecting a book and returning a book are simple, restorative pleasures. My general guideline: I can’t take a book unless I leave a book.

Enjoy an article  about one Little Free Library from our local newspaper.

All of this, of course, makes me want to join the Little Free Library movement. Stay tuned for this new and fun endeavor.

By the way, here’s the latest book I borrowed from the Little Library. You just can’t help but be touched by this grandmother’s quest to help her quirky granddaughter. You’ll be rooting for both of them in the end.  It’s on its way back to the corner library, if you’re interested. Remember to take a book to leave too.

Slainte! Susan

Additional Reading Info Below******************************************

More words for people who love books, reading, and words:

• librocubicultarist: (hasn’t made its way to the dictionary quite yet) someone who reads in bed (indeed!)
• Bibliophagist:  a devourer of words (me, me, me!)
• Bibliosmia: the smell or aroma of a book (can’t get this on the iPad)
• Logophile: a lover of words (see above)
• Ballycumber:  one of six half read books lying in your bed (or for me, the nightstand) (Also a small village in Ireland, of course!)
• tsundoku: a Japanese word with no direct English translation, the act of leaving a book after buying it, and piling it up with other unread books (reality!!)
• Omnilegent: reading or having read everything (impossible!)
• Book-Bosomed: one who carries a book all the time (or at least has one in the car!)

 

 

 

In two weeks, two dear friends have told me no. It’s gratifying to have special people in my life who realize the importance of taking care of themselves, even if it means having to turn me down. Sometimes it seems there are not any new ideas. It’s just some ideas get recycled to meet new needs or new situations. The idea that we should not feel guilty when we say no, isn’t new. Yet, why do so many of us (myself included), feel badly when we have to decline?  It can be downright difficult to say no.

Both of my no-saying friends, were quick to give explanations for their denial of my request. I hope I was quick enough to let them know they didn’t need to explain. I think I even told one friend that if I was in front of her, I might have slapped her for feeling like she had to give me her rationale. (You know I’d never slap anyone!!)

In reality, I felt so proud both times, pleased that these confidants were able to say no! What a skill to have. Our time is so important. Whether we are doing something we love, reading, napping, cooking, cleaning, gardening, taking care of family, it is all important. It all matters. Can you do it, say no, without guilt? Or, does it wear on you all day?

I know, I know. We have heard this before, and maybe today you needed to be reminded that it’s just fine to decline an invitation or say no to a request, without a lengthy explanation, guilt-free. Take care of you!

Slainte! Susan

I love quotes. Though we can be inundated with them on social media, still, I enjoy them and often they speak directly to my heart. Since my holiday in Ireland, I have been  fascinated with Irish proverbs.

What is for you will not pass you by…yes, I believe this! Even when it’s meant to be, sometimes I still have to remind myself effort on my part is still required.

I can look back at so many events that didn’t work out how I wanted, and as I follow the story through in reflection, I realize it wasn’t for me.  But, gosh, at the time the let down can be incredibly tough.

My latest venture is to be an author of a school for middle-schoolers, to help them navigate through the tough part of of being a tween.  Fingers crossed that being an author is “for me” as the Irish proverb says. I’ll keep you posted on my progress.  Anybody know how to get more hours in one day? Anybody know a publisher?

Slainte! Susan

Optional Reading******************************************************

I took this picture last summer while on the Island of Inishmore in the Republic of Ireland. When I look back on some of the best days of my life, this day is right at the top. It was like stepping back in time. The houses have thatched roofs, few cars are on the island, and stone walls are everywhere.  When we tried to rent bikes with a credit card we were told Euros only-of which we didn’t have enough. A kind man with his family asked the bike guy to add our rental fees onto his. We rode around the island hugging the Irish Sea. The sun was out, the sky was clear, and truly I felt like it was a dream! A perfect day, though we failed to follow the directions given, we ended up on a road, less traveled, and we were exactly where we needed to be!

We are well into another year! Surely you have goals, aspirations, and dreams for the next 11ish months. Consider the wise words from an Irish poet, W.B. Yeats.

I have spread my dreams under your feet tread softly because you tread on my dreams. 

Hang on tightly to your supporters- those people who celebrate your tomorrows, hopes, dreams, and ideas as wild as they may seem!

A few of my personal aspirations for the year: Continue my one marathon-a-year streak, pursue writing classes for myself (finally for me, not my students!), spend more time reading and less time on social media (even Pinterest), visit a new country (or two or three), worry less, and be me!

Interestingly enough, people in my life have had something negative to say about each of these. Marathons are bad for your knees….don’t people die? Watching TV is easier than reading…Pinterest is educational…Why spend hard earned money traveling abroad?

When such remarks are made, I remember to cherish the many supporters in my life who encourage even my smallest plans!  Remembering Yeats helps too!

Cheers to you and whatever wild ideas you have for 2016. May you fill your days with those who support you vigorously!

Slainte!  Susan

*********************************************************************

Optional Reading!

It was one of those memorable days…While on the Emerald Isle, one of my dear travel partners was fascinated by old grave sites. We visited at a few. She had specifically mentioned finding Yeats’ gravesite. We truly stumbled upon the road sign for his grave. Because we were not watching for the sign, our driver had to make quite a sudden turn as to not miss the exit. Driving on the opposite side of the road didn’t help with any suddenness related to the wee car!  We meandered through the grounds and through an old church (most churches are old here). We learned of his above mentioned poem and other tidbits of information on our self-guided tour. Admittedly, I knew little about Yeats prior to the almost missed turn into his burial site. After we left, we found our way to our resting place for the night-Foxford, a quaint fishing village. The B&B hosts could not have been more hospitable during our stay. After fine meal, we relaxed in their parlor, and enjoyed freshly French pressed coffee and just made banana bread. We researched Yeats and shared our new found information with one another. I have this quote in my nest (aka office), and it takes me back to one of the highlights of our Irish holiday! Our brief stay in Foxford is a cherished memory, and I’m so pleased Yeats was a part of it!

Who deserves a thank you from you? Someone who currently impacts your life…or someone from long ago?

I had many educators who made a positive impact on me, though none more than my high school English teacher, Susan Lawrence-Rich. I could go on and on about what I learned from her, oh so many years ago. Suffice it to say, she fostered my love of language and writing-two of my passions, even today.

After continuous encouragement from a dear friend, I finally, after almost 30 years, penned a letter to Mrs. Rich.  Putting my thoughts to paper was such a joy, and I was surprised by how much I had to share with her.

Yesterday’s trip to the  mailbox led me to a delightful discovery! I received correspondence from Mrs. Rich to thank me for my letter, impeccably timed as she nears retirement.

Just wondering if there’s anybody who deserves a letter of gratitude from you? Why are you waiting?

Slainte!

Susan

While not my own idea, I’m intrigued. I saw this idea on the internet. Originally created for parents to use with kids for Christmas, there’s value for adults too. I have pondered my own responses for several days.

Even if you don’t put pen to paper, consider your personal responses.

Something you want. Something you need. Something to wear. Something to read. 

For now, subject to change, here are my responses.

Want: less sadness in our community (wanted to say the world but that’s asking a lot)

Need: balance

Read: The list is sooo long. Better too long than too short!

Wear: More handknitted warmth from Ireland. Why didn’t I buy another sweater? scarf? hat?

I would love to hear your thoughts! Enjoy Christmas with those you love!

Slainte! Susan