I see you, my sweet girl

Just returned from train trippin' with my gal. We celebrated her ladyhood (!) with our favorite Theía (aunt in Greek) Christina in Philadelphia, my dearest college friend who happens to be a school psychologist and our go-to, who reassures us our gal's doing okay, and we are too. Thankful our gal has her own special relationship with Theía!

oh the possibilities!
maybe some will be lost along the journey.
the train will appear,
then disappear many trying times
and right on time, you will find your path.
you will snap your shots as tiny moments glimmer and reflect
you will glow with joyful gratitude
delighted in what beats inside of you
as you find your way in the world and
remember your roots, our hearts hold you.
my sweet girl,
my sacred sun catcher,
see yourself and wonder,
listen to the elders beyond who whisper
and sling the stars your way
drink them and light the track.

Dear Deer

The last time deer appeared unexpectedly was when we decided to send N. back to school in person during the pandemic after she had been vaccinated. January 2022 after everyone else had returned to school in person in August 2021. The sight of the deer family on my morning walk then was reassurance that we had made the right decision . . . for our family. 

A female deer appeared again today during my walk with my four-legged Creagh. After having led a few PTA committees these past years, I'd recently made the decision to step up as PTA president at N.'s elementary school. While I wait to be voted in to the Board, a mix of excitement and anxiety unnerve me just a bit. And there she was, alone and regal in the middle of our suburban neighborhood field. Quiet and still. Looking directly at me. Reminding me that I am where I'm meant to be. 

Dear Deer --

Thank you for stopping me in my tracks to remember the importance of gentleness and heart intelligence. I truly believe that you have come at a time when I need confirmation that this is the next step fated in my journey to stay connected to what matters right now. I have always valued the ideal of school community and engagement. I love the importance of connection to others, to nature, to ourselves so that productive learning can happen in and out of the classroom, at home, and in our hearts in an effort to be grow in self-awareness and mindful gratitude. And so I will lead and act with that rootedness in heart connection. 

Thank you for meeting me this morning. You are my spirit animal. 

With love --
Sheelagh