Uphill idealist

Supplies: Cardboard Craft Box (or small shoe box you have on hand)  Poke hole in back right corner of box to attach stick (for mail flag). Mod Podge Tissue Paper Scrapbook Paper Crafty do dads: Gems, stamps, etc... Popsicle Stick (Tongue depressor) - Poke a hole in one end of the stick Brass fastener - to hold on Mail flag. Brush Scissors Choose papers and cut or tear them as you desire. Brush Mod podge on box, place paper and re-brush the paper until you cover the box as desired. When done layering papers, re-coat the entire box (except bottom) with mod podge to seal. Allow to dry. Place the mail box in a place all family members can reach and place love notes to each other inside. To make note making easy, place pencils and scrap paper beside the box. Enjoy! .   

Jump for joy, jump in place, jump to get out of that stuck place. Take a turn at hopscotch. Do you remember how to play? Numbers and squares we followed, through recess, every day. Jump for joy, jump in place, don't forget how play takes us to new space. JUMP! Image found at besquirrely.com

The invitation was extended so long ago. Yet I linger in the dark corners. Counting the steps alone. 1, 2, 3, stumble. 1, 2, trip. 1,  I quit. The light of your welcome lands on me where I stand. Frustration. Idealism. Maybe even some angst. All this illuminated for all to see. I blush. The heat of all my failed effort colors my face. You come to my corner. To the place I've wandered. Taking the first step. Reaching out to my sweaty hands. Minding the tenderness of my heart and telling criticism to leave the dance floor. "Let's try it again together" you gently offer. Opening your arms as a place of safety and refuge. "Don't count, breathe, and follow me." You've got the steps memorized. You know what tune the band will play next. You make your dance partner look graceful, beautiful, and radiant. You give all you are to the dance, so I can join in without fear. Your invitation is extended in each day and every moment.

"Birds sing in the morning to celebrate the new day - and remind us of all the wonderful possibilities for joy, hope and love that are available to us every day." T.L. Eastman (Above painting is a mixed media piece created for a friends wedding gift...birds, feathers and hope are a good way to start a marriage!)