Day 117 - Think

Watercolor - Cedar Grove Tulips
My Dad had a phrase for everything, but one of the ones that I think of often is TTT. Think Things Through. Anytime I'm about to make a rash, quick, impulsive, important decision, I hear my Dad's voice in my head. I haven't always heeded his good advice, but I find myself doing it more and more lately. Lots to TTT.

Day 116 - Back

Watercolor. Start of Tulip Study
I am learning more than I thought possible this year, especially in the last 6 months. If I have learned ANYTHING, which I hope I will retain, it's that we can't go back - ever. I can't have my husband back, I can't get my son's father back and I can't undo things I've already done. But this one thing I can do...forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead. (Philippians 3:13) I am all about moving forward, learning from the past, but not wanting to go back. That is the beauty of the present and of life.

Day 115 - Grateful_Again

Watercolor of my niece Kelly
I spent the afternoon and evening with my son. I hadn't seen him for almost 6 weeks (a long time for us nowadays) because of a work assignment he had out of the country. Today was a great reunion. He is happy, and I am happy. We've traveled a long, hard road since my husband and his Dad died over 3 years ago. I still miss Pat with all my heart, but I am ok about moving forward as is my son. I am SO VERY grateful to have him. My gift from Pat.

Day 114 - Sunny

Watercolor Point Pleasant, NJ
Today is gorgeous. It felt so good to do everything thus far. Workout, diner with things to read, painting, breathing. These days are very special and meant to be savored. Now to diner with a good friend.

Day 113 - Love

Watercolor I just finished from an old project

<< 1 Corinthians 13:7 >>
Two translations I particularly liked of one of my favorite Bible verses:

New Living Translation (©2007)
Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.


GOD'S WORD® Translation (©1995)
Love never stops being patient, never stops believing, never stops hoping, never gives up.

Day 112 - Regrets

Watercolor in progress
"Never regret. If it's good, it's wonderful. If it's bad, it's experience." VICTORIA HOLT

The quote is from the Simple Abundance Companion by Sarah Ban Breathnach. She asks herself every morning this question: "If she should die at night, what would she regret not having done that day?" The only thing you can do about the past is to let it go, but you can do something about the present even if it's a small action. I like how she asks herself is there someone you need to tell "I love you" or "I forgive you". We all have those people in our lives and sometimes it's just a matter of postponing the act because of pain or hardship. I'm going to really think about this today...

Day 111 - Beginnings

Watercolor
On my way into work this morning, I listened to the Best of Bruce Springsteen CD that a good friend bought for me. It lifted my spirits and felt like the beginning of a new chapter in life. I think this is going to be a wonderful summer...