Pious Angel

Sadly, my mother-in-law has lost four siblings and her husband in less than two years. Most recently, A.'s beloved Tita Lita died. He has shared many affectionate stories of her by his side as a young boy growing up in the Philippines as well as in his adulthood, her wisdom in finding a life partner. I am deeply grateful to have had many occasions to just sit and visit with her and chat about Life. Also thankful that N. will always have the memory of enjoying breakfasts and 'real bacon' with Lola Lita. 

In loving memory of Angelita Branam
b. 7.2.44 - d. 4.25.26

stories relayed to me of a most devout angel's
comforting presence --
tita who served a soothing force in his times of loneliness
guidance --
tita who offered warmth and protection
healing love --
tita who ferried peace to his broken heart
her mighty faithfulness and resilience
an angel's grace so soft and light
his guardian Tita Angelita

Easter tending

tending to myself

in the season of renewal
a 7.2mile run
around the circles of America's Athens
-- Westgate
-- Church
-- State Capital
on the hallowed grounds of St. John's 
tending to ourselves
on the river Severn
retreat on the water
so that we may feel refreshed
amidst the baroque byways of Annapolis

Sprouting spring

behind the curtain, life can be messy
you too? yes, me too
life can be hard, the world is mad . . .
how much more wonderful would it be
if we leaned into each other
embraced each other 
tightly, lovingly
especially when we need to
especially when it feels difficult
especially when circumstances exhaust us,
and we can be in our truth