Went on a wonderful walk along the Upper Iowa River today. The homestead pictured belongs to friends of mine and they have a great trail around the property. The boys (mine and my friend's two) had a great time and so did I!

We saw so many signs of activity of beavers, but did not see a dam. We also spotted 4 eagles, geese, wood ducks and many song birds. Even though there was not sunshine, being outside for a couple of hours was refreshing.

Bike Riding Rocks!

Went for a nice ride today with my 8 year old. He has a no speed bike and he kicked my ass! He commented how good biking is for me and let me tell you, it was truly motivating.

I learned today that I do not need to go FAST-but just simply pedal and enjoy the scenic view go by.

Tomorrow is my 44th birthday-I think I will go for a nice long bike ride again. Maybe if I put enough miles in by July, I would be able to ride a little of Ragbrai? Mmm, did I just participate unknowingly in goal setting? Mwahahhahaha.

Shattered Mirrors

i will turn to meet my destiny,
reflected in shattered mirrors.
heart broken open,
i will pick up the pieces
no matter how sharp
to reflect
what is neglected
in dark corners,
wounded, light deprived,
with prayerful hands i'll
recycle devastation to
nourish new life.
art, like gardening,
is an act of faith and healing,
shining for the world.
as Mystery's greater
than the sum of all suffering,
i will trust to Love.

-Mimi Foyle 2008

Walking In Sunshine

We had our annual Blues Sunday yesterday at the UU. A great Klezmer group played blues from another culture. The music was somber and uplifting at the same time. During the last song, some folks got up and danced up and down the aisle-old, young, middle-age-it was a beautiful sight. I had walked to church and on my way home I cried. I cried for many reasons...
I cried for the music I had the pleasure of hearing and for the community of my UUers.
I cried for my ex-partner and feel sad that he once experienced an alternative view of the world with me and is missing out on so much. I cried because I miss walking arm-in-arm with him. I miss my parents and all of their wisdom and love. I miss my innocence.
I miss our big, extended family get-togethers. I cried for my friend who is facing a summer of chemotherapy and healing. And finally I cried because it was so beautiful outside and the sun felt so good and it was exactly what I needed.
I ended my day with a cup of tea and a book while sitting on my west facing deck taking in all that the sun had to offer.