Spirits not Dampened, Despite it Raining on our Parade

     

     I had never taken in our city's Santa Claus parade, now in its twelfth year, but a few days ago, decided it was something I wanted to experience, so despite the soggy forecast, we headed over town yesterday afternoon - my husband, granddaughter and I. Claiming a small strip along the curb with our folded picnic blanket, we sat huddled together drinking hot chocolate under a shared umbrella for over an hour. The unrelenting rain did not dampen the lively energy of the participants or spectators. Waving and singing along, we enjoyed a steady stream of marching bands, colourfully costumed dancers, elaborate floats, and festively decorated horses. After the parade wrapped up with Santa gliding by on his sleigh, we packed up our blanket and strolled back up the sidewalk hand-in-hand with wet bums, rosy cheeks and filled hearts, all agreeing it had been a wonderful outing. Perhaps next year, our grandson can forgo his nap and snuggle in with us to experience it too.
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Summer Storm

Wakening to a hot and sunny Okanagan morning yesterday.  Feeling the weight of the building thunderstorm.  Likely the reason behind the previous night's restless sleep.  Getting out for a long swim.  The first of the year.  After lunch, settling in on the mat, overlooking the lake. Practicing yin yoga.  The atmospheric pressure finally releasing in the form of thunder, lightening and heavy rain.  This summer storm playing out all around me.  Breathing in that cooler, moist, sweet summer air.  Simultaneously releasing deep internal tension while holding those long poses.  Soon after, witnessing a magnificent rainbow.  Reflecting the very colours of the chakras.  Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet.  Grateful for such a rich and vibrant day.

Bird on a Wire

As the saying goes, it is often the little things.  Walking along the mountainside power line trail.  Tail wagging Gulliver eagerly accompanying me.  Light rain with cool temperatures.  Definitely not uplifting weather.  With each step, carrying the emotional weight of preparing for the upcoming golf tournament.  Appreciating how wonderful it will be to all spend time together.  Simultaneously acknowledging the complex feelings it brings to the fore.  Midway along the journey, slowing down to send a message to the universe. Gazing skyward while humbly requesting dry weather for the weekend. Seconds later noticing a tiny bird perched high above.  On one of the electrical wires.  Suspended more than fifteen metres above the earth. Recognizing it to be an exquisite hummingbird.  Fluffing its feathers. Putting on quite a show.  Instantly sensing a shift in my disposition. Welcoming this reoccurring symbol of connection.  So grateful to be noticing it.  Very much appreciating its presence.  This small being making a huge impact.  With a lighter heart and bounce in my step, sending a smile of thanks for this magnificent moment.

Spa Time

A friend and I recently spending time together at an outdoor spa in the woods.  One year after our inaugural visit.  Luxuriating in three hours of pure relaxation.  Coexisting in silence.  Mindfully moving from one experience to another.  Enjoying a predominantly meditative state. Fully embracing the sensation of being, rather than doing.  Soaking in the pools.  Reposing in steam and sauna. Reclining in deck chairs beside the stone fire pit, bundled up in white terry robes.  Tears of gratitude rolling down my cheeks while reflecting on the abundance in my life. Later, some of sadness while lounging near the forest's edge.  Emotions mirroring the weather.  Billowing clouds, cool breezes, sunny breaks, and rain showers.  Observing a marked difference between this year's visit and last.  This time around achieving a much deeper sense of contentment and bliss.

Sadness

As the rain falls outside my window, I cuddle up with a blanket on my comfy sofa, Kleenex box in hand, listening to the songs that played at his service and allow the tears to flow. It feels so good to release some of my sadness. As the lyrics in Toby Keith's "Cryin' For Me" remind me, "I'm not crying cause I feel so sorry for you, I'm crying for me."  Even though my soul understands, my heart feels so sad.